By: L.N. Reklai

January 23, 2017 (Koror, Palau) The first major project to launch under the new 10th government broke ground yesterday at the Marine Law Enforcement office at Malakal, Koror, the project to enhance Palau’s marine surveillance and enforcement capabilities.

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The ground breaking ceremony initials the start of the construction of a new 3 story administration building for the Division of Marine Law Enforcement and Palau National Marine Sanctuary office as well as the new berth for the new patrols boats donated by Nippon Foundation and Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

High Chief Ibedul Yutaka Gibbons expressed his gratitude to Nippon Foundation and Sasakawa Peace Foundation for their immense contribution stating,  “This is a huge improvement for our nation that we may not have been  able to come up with on our own and we are very thankful for our partners.”

The project which is expected to cost around $70 million dollars include a 3 story building which will house offices, operation rooms, training rooms as well as detention facilities.

It includes a new berth, a 50 meter patrol boat, 2 smaller patrol boats, salary for 15 crew members for 10 years, training and fuel for the boats for the next 10 years.

“This is the first such facility for this part of our region and this will not only benefit us but our neighboring countries such as FSM,” stated President Remengesau Jr.

President Remengesau Jr. expressed Palau’s appreciation to Nippon Foundation and Sasakawa Foundation for the immense support in developing Palau’s maritime enforcement capabilities and the government of Japan for supporting such project.

He extended his appreciation to Koror State Government for partnering with national government in pursuit of national interests. He further recognized US government and Australian government for partnering with Palau to protect its ocean resource.

“We are very proud that we moved forward with concrete plan of action, moved forward with our partners,” asserted Remengesau of the culmination of project.

The event was well attended by Palau’s national leadership especially House and Senate members. [/restrict]