Tokyo, Japan – February 12, 2025 – Prime Minister ISHIBA Shigeru and President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. reaffirmed their nations’ special relationship during a 60-minutes-long summit meeting in Tokyo. This marks President Whipps’ first official visit to Japan following his re-election for a second term.
Prime Minister Ishiba welcomed the President’s visit soon after his inauguration for his second term, and stated that Japan and Palau have been fostering a robust “kizuna” through a long history of exchange, and expressed his eagerness to further strengthen “tokubetu” relationship between Japan and Palau, building on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, which was commemorated last year. Regarding the discharge of ALPS treated water into the sea, Prime Minister Ishiba also expressed his appreciation for the continued support by the Government of Palau to Japan.
In response, President Whipps stated that the relationship between Palau and Japan has always been special, and he expressed his eagerness to further enhance bilateral relations, building on the strong foundation of trust he shares with Prime Minister Ishiba.
Regarding bilateral relations, Prime Minister Ishiba reiterated that Japan’s commitment to Palau remains unchanged and that this was why he sent the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, to the inauguration ceremony of President Whipps for his second term. He stated that Japan would support Palau’s resilient and sustainable development by fully considering Palau’s needs. He expressed his expectation that Japan Airlines’ plans for direct charter flights in March would help increasing the number of Japanese tourists visiting Palau. He also mentioned Japan’s economic cooperation for developing a sustainable fishing industry, including the Ngatpang fishing port, while requesting the early expansion of fishing areas in Palau’s waters. In response, President Whipps expressed his gratitude to the Government and People of Japan for their continued cooperation with Palau.
Prime Minister Ishiba expressed his gratitude for Palau’s cooperation in the recovery of Japanese war remains and requested Palau’s continued support, as Japan aims to accelerate these activities this year, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. He welcomed Palau’s participation in the Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai, Japan this year, and also expressed his expectation for Palau’s participation in the GREEN×EXPO 2027.
On other matters, both leaders reaffirmed their close collaboration toward the 11th Pacific Island Leaders Meeting (PALM11) in 2027, with Palau set to chair the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in 2026. They also exchanged views on various regional issues, including the outcomes of Prime Minister Ishiba’s visit to the United States.
This meeting further strengthens the long-standing partnership between Japan and Palau, emphasizing shared goals in economic growth, regional security, and environmental sustainability.