WCPFC joins the FSM in Mourning the Passing of Hon. Lorin S. Robert, Distinguished Foreign Affairs Secretary and Pacific Fisheries Champion
The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) conveys its sadness at the passing of the Honorable Lorin S. Robert, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, and honors his legacy of public service in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).
Secretary Robert was one of the nation’s longest-serving diplomats, dedicating over four decades to the service of his country and helping elevate the FSM’s voice on the global stage. His passing is a tremendous loss for the FSM and the Pacific region, and the nation joins together in mourning a respected leader who shaped its foreign policy for generations.
Throughout his career, Secretary Robert was at the forefront of regional fisheries diplomacy. He played a pivotal part in the establishment and growth of the WCPFC, the multilateral body charged with conserving and managing tuna and other migratory fish stocks across the Pacific. Under his guidance, the FSM proudly became the host of the WCPFC’s permanent Secretariat in Pohnpei when the Commission commenced operations in 2005. This hosting of the WCPFC Secretariat in Pohnpei stands as a testament to Secretary Robert’s commitment to regional cooperation and FSM’s leadership in Pacific fisheries governance. He often remarked on the honor and responsibility of FSM’s role as host, and worked closely with Commission officials and member nations to support the Commission’s critical work.
Within WCPFC processes, his guidance helped give clear voice to the perspectives of the FSM. He supported efforts to strengthen conservation and management measures, improve compliance, and reinforce cooperation among members. His quiet, measured style fostered trust and helped bridge differences during difficult regional discussions.
The WCPFC Secretariat and membership remember Secretary Robert as a dedicated statesman, mentor, and partner. His contribution to the establishment and evolution of the Commission, and to the decision of the FSM to host the Secretariat in Pohnpei, leaves a lasting legacy for Pacific fisheries governance.
The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission extends its deepest sympathy to Secretary Robert’s family, and to the Government and people of the Federated States of Micronesia. The Commission shares in the FSM’s national mourning and pays tribute to a leader whose life of service strengthened both his country and the wider Pacific community.
WCPFC Media contact: Aaron Nighswander (aaron.nighswander@wcpfc.int)
About WCPFC:
The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) is an international governmental organization established to conserve and manage tuna and other highly migratory fish stocks across the western and central Pacific Ocean. Headquartered in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, the WCPFC brings together a diverse range of nations, territories, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable, science-based fisheries management. Visit www.wcpfc.int for more information.