David Orrukem became Palau’s third Ambassador to the Republic of China -Taiwan since Palau established diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1999.
After taking his oath of office yesterday, Ambassador David Orrukem pledged to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries through cultural, educational, and commerce exchange.
President Surangel Whipps Jr. emphasized the importance of the relationship between Palau and Taiwan, saying that Ambassador Orrukem would leave for the post as soon as possible. Former Ambassador Dilmei Olkeriil returned home this week after serving ten years as Palau’s Ambassador to Taiwan.
Whipps recognized Olkeriil’s contributions as an ambassador in building and strengthening the relationship between the two countries during her tenure.
Newly sworn-in Ambassador Orrukem said that he would augment what former Ambassador Olkeriil has built and further improve the relations between the two countries.
Ambassador Orrukem is not new to the field of diplomacy. He had served as Palau’s charge d’ affairs at the Palau Embassy in Washington D.C. and represented Palau in bilateral meetings at the UN. In addition to his diplomatic background, he had served as a school principal, Director of the Bureau of Tourism, and Chairman of the Palau Conservation Society. These are experiences and skillsets President Whipps said Orrukem brings to the table.
Thanking everyone that had supported him grow through his professional career development, Ambassador Orrukem was emotional, expressing gratitude for the support of his wife and family in his endeavors.
Palau is one of the 14 countries recognizing Taiwan as a sovereign country.