Calvo Remains Confident in Buildup’s Potential

Governor to Advocate for Local Socio-Economic Projects, China/Russia Visa-Waivers

Immediate Release: June 22, 2011

Governor Eddie Baza Calvo remains confident a military buildup will occur on Guam, and that it will boost the island’s economy. Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo and Under Secretary of the Navy Robert Work in separate conversations with Governor Calvo, reiterated both the United States and Japan are committed to the bilateral agreement, in which Marines will relocate from Okinawa to Guam. The talks come just after a closing news conference following the “Two-Plus-Two” meeting between Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Defense Secretary Robert Gates, and their Japanese counterparts.

“There’s a lot of unknowns out there, and there’s a lot of uncertainties. What’s certain is this buildup will happen, and Marines will come to Guam.” Governor Calvo said. “We need to continue to push for the improvements required to be ready for this buildup—no ifs, ands, or buts about it.”

Governor Calvo is now preparing letters to members of Congress, both in the House of Representatives and the Senate, to stress the importance of including socio-economic improvement projects in the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act. Currently, the lawmaking bodies are preparing for a joint conference to iron out the issues between the two versions of the bill.

“No matter what the buildup ends up being or how long it takes, there will be an impact to this island,” Governor Calvo said. “We still need Congress to begin paying for the required preparations for a buildup. The Defense Department recognizes this, and so does Congresswoman Bordallo.”

Visa-Waiver

Governor Calvo also discussed the status of granting visa-waivers to China and Russia with the Congresswoman and the Under Secretary. In light of the expected delays in buildup construction projects, the waiver will provide economic relief to the island.

“The prospects are looking good. We just have to keep the pressure on and continue the dialogue with all stakeholders in the Obama administration,” Governor Calvo said. “We understand the buildup timelines were adjusted to make them more workable. I’m hoping our friends in Washington can adjust this policy to make our economy more viable.”