The CNMI Republican Party, chaired by former CNMI Lt. Governor Diego T. Benavente, has announced its strong support for several initiatives aimed at revitalizing tourism and growing the economy in the islands.
“How many more hotels must close in the CNMI? How many more people must lose their jobs? And how many more public services and programs must be cut before our elected leaders realize they have to do something today and immediately?” Benavente asks.
Benavente added, “For many years, the Northern Mariana Islands has had industries that supported our economy, such as the garment and gaming industries. We have always come back to our core industries that have survived through numerous natural disasters, world conflicts and global health challenges. Tourism is the only industry that has proven beneficial to our people and our environment and has been able to withstand the many obstacles that come our way.”
“Currently, we cannot afford to choose other markets for travelers to the CNMI, but it is not because we are not trying. The CNMI needs tourists from China and as a resort destination we must be competitive and attract these tourists to our islands. To compete with other destinations such as Guam and Hawaii, the Marianas Visitors Authority needs sufficient funding to promote and capture travelers from key sending markets, including China,” he said.
The CNMI Republican Party fully supports the Federal Port Authority’s application for an exemption to Section 213 Order 2023-8-10 submitted to the Department of Transportation and the implementation of the CNMI EVS-TAP program. The program will allow pre-screened travelers from China to visit the CNMI without a visa under certain conditions, further encouraging the return of Chinese tourists. “We believe that by supporting these efforts, we can ensure job opportunities and a stable economy,” Benavente said.
To better inform CNMI residents of the Republican Party’s plans to improve the CNMI’s struggling economy, the CNMI Republican Party will distribute a party platform. This document outlines the party’s comprehensive strategy and policies aimed at economic recovery and growth.
