Ambassador Akira Karasawa, Japan’s Ambassador to Palau, was recognized in a Joint Resolution by the Palau national congress (Olbiil Era Kelulau) for his exemplary service as an ambassador to Palau, helping greatly the Palauan people during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The resolution noted that Ambassador Karasawa supported and endorsed many projects during his term as Ambassador that greatly improved the Palauan people’s lives and strengthened the relationship between Japan and Palau.
Ambassador Karasawa’s term ends on November 26th, making him the longest-serving Ambassador of Japan to Palau.
“During his three years term, Ambassador Karasawa has implemented 38 projects worth over $60 million USD. The most recent project implemented involves building resilience in times of disaster,” expressed Minister Charles Obichang of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Industry. “The resiliency project is cross-cutting, involving different sectors from communications to fire equipment, and more, preparing us for disasters,” lauded Obichang.
He is known as the first ambassador to visit all of the 16 states of Palau, including the South-West States, to see the implementation of solar projects funded by the government of Japan.
Minister of Education Dr. Dale Jenkins also recognized Ambassador Karasawa’s proactive support in obtaining assistance to repair the condemned cafeteria at Meyuns Elementary School, helping to provide a safe and healthy place for students to have their lunches.
The projects implemented during his term include some of the major infrastructures such as the National Landfill, the Palau Submarine Cable Project, the Renovation of the Palau International Airport, Climate Change and Disaster Resilience, Maritime security, and many more.
Palau congress commended Karasawa for his work that contributed to “positive impacts” on Palau’s community. (By: L.N. Reklai)