Koror, Palau – The Japan Coast Guard Academy training vessel Kojima arrived in Palau this week, marking the final stop on its three-month international training cruise. The ship, carrying 42 cadets and 44 crew members, is scheduled for decommissioning upon its return to Japan, making this a historic visit.
“Kojima,” meaning “small islands,” aptly concludes its voyage in Palau, a nation of islands, said Palau’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gustav Aitaro. The visit coincides with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Palau, highlighting the close ties between the two nations.
During a dinner reception aboard the Kojima on Wednesday, the Japanese Ambassador to Palau, Hiroyuki Orikasa, emphasized the strong bond between the countries. He described them as “like brothers” who collaborate on international issues and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Ambassador Orikasa noted Palau’s strategic location and potential security threats. He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to working with Palau to ensure regional prosperity and uphold the rules-based international order. The Kojima visit underscores this commitment, particularly in the area of maritime security.
Kojima departed Japan for its training cruise three months ago. San Francisco, Hawaii, and Guam were previous port calls before arriving in Palau. The ship will complete its training and return to Japan in July.
The dinner reception onboard Kojima fostered cultural exchange, with Palauan officials, including state governors, school principals, and community members, joining the Japanese cadets and crew for an evening of food, drinks, and cadet performances.