Micronesia's new president takes over from Taiwan-leaning predecessor

Wesley Simina faces diplomatic balancing act between China and U.S.

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Wesley Simina, left, is sworn in as president of Micronesia on May 11. (Photo courtesy of the presidential office)

RURIKA IMAHASHI, Nikkei staff writer

SYDNEY -- The Pacific island nation of Micronesia picked Simina as its new president Thursday in a changing of the guard from a predecessor who had warmed up to Taiwan.

The nation's congress elected Simina to replace David Panuelo, whose four-year term ended. Simina, who first won his congressional seat in 2011, had served as speaker since 2015.

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