THE UNITED STATES EMBASSY in Majuro has announced the retirement of Ambassador Laura M. Stone, ending a distinguished 35-year diplomatic career.
Stone is praised for strengthening the partnership between the United States and the Republic of the Marshall Islands during her tenure.
She worked closely with the Marshallese government to advance shared priorities under the Compact of Free Association, focusing on benefits in education, health, infrastructure, and public administration.
Stone oversaw programs ensuring Compact benefits reached Marshallese communities directly, including the Individual Support Distribution (ISD) and Extraordinary Needs Distribution (END).
The ambassador also deepened bilateral cooperation on maritime security and continued engagement on the US nuclear legacy in the Marshall Islands.
Stone called her time in the Marshall Islands “one of the greatest honours” of her career.
“We made meaningful progress in implementing the Compact of Free Association in ways that ensure its benefits reach the Marshallese people,” she said.
Stone expressed confidence that the US-Marshall Islands relationship would continue to grow.
Her diplomatic career included senior roles in Washington and overseas postings in Vietnam, China, Thailand, and Japan.
Deputy Chief of Mission Gregory D’Alesandro will serve as Chargé d’Affaires until a new ambassador is appointed.