CNMI, Guam Begin Federal Talks in D.C.

CNMI and Guam officials are in Washington, D.C. for a mid-year meeting with the Interagency Group on Insular Areas. CNMI officials are also preparing for 902 talks with The White House this week.

In a social media post last night, the Apatang administration said, “Governor David M. Apatang met with CNMI Delegate Kimberly King-Hinds today at the U.S. Capitol to discuss critical priorities for the Commonwealth. This visit is part of the CNMI’s ongoing preparations for the upcoming 902 Talks with President Trump’s Special Representative, where leaders will address key issues impacting the CNMI’s future.”

In a previous interview with Marianas Press in August, Gov. Apatang said the main objectives for the 902 talks will reflect the initial asks of the late Governor Arnold Palacios.

The late governor discussed his priorities in his last State of the Commonwealth Address earlier this year. Palacios said in May 2025, “...the issues we needed to address—like 702 funding, Medicaid sustainability, and economic resilience—were too important to delay. I made it clear that even if these negotiations did not wrap up before the change in administration, it was critical to put our concerns and our priorities on record and on the table.” Other issues include tourism, transportation infrastructure, and access to skilled labor.

Apatang told MP, “We are just carrying forward, making sure that we are moving in the right direction.” He acknowledged that the economy remains top of mind for 902 talks.

Section 902 of NMI’s Covenant says the U.S. and NMI governments will “consult regularly on all matters affecting the relationship between them.”