Overview:
Palau President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. called for stronger cooperation on maritime security, law enforcement and cybersecurity during the Sasakawa Security Forum in Koror, warning that Palau remains on the “front line” of Indo-Pacific security challenges. The forum highlighted growing regional partnerships aimed at combating transnational crime, protecting sovereignty and strengthening Pacific resilience.
B: Laurel Marewibuel
KOROR, Palau — President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. urged stronger regional cooperation on maritime security, law enforcement and cybersecurity during the opening dinner of the Sasakawa Security Forum, saying Palau must remain vigilant on the “front line” of the Indo‑Pacific.
Speaking at the event hosted by Sasakawa USA, Whipps thanked forum organisers and called for greater inclusion of Palau in trilateral exercises designed to counter transnational crime and malign influence. He also urged broader maritime awareness and enhanced law enforcement ties among partner nations.
“Mesulang to Dr. Akimoto, Brian Harding, and the Sasakawa USA team for bringing this extraordinary group of neighbors together, not in Washington, not in Tokyo, but here, on the front line,” Whipps said.
A self-employed Palauan woman in her 20’s, interviewed about the forum and the wider regional focus on the Pacific said a “free and open Indo‑Pacific” means preserving Palau’s ability to safeguard its waters, people and culture.
“To me, it means Palau having the freedom to protect our waters, our people, and our culture without outside pressure. We may be a small nation, but our voice still matters in the Pacific,” the citizen said.
When asked whether stronger security partnerships with countries such as the United States and Japan would benefit ordinary Palauans, the citizen said yes, particularly for border protection, fighting illegal activity and improving cybersecurity. They added a hope that partnerships would also bring training and job opportunities for local people.
“Yes, especially when it comes to protecting our borders, fighting illegal activities, and improving cybersecurity. But I also hope these partnerships create more opportunities and training for local people too,” the citizen said.
The interviewee also agreed that small island states in the Pacific are gaining geopolitical importance.
“Definitely. Bigger countries are paying more attention to the Pacific now, and Palau is in an important position. I think this is our chance to speak up and make sure our interests are respected,” they said.
Organizers said the Sasakawa Security Forum aims to foster dialogue among neighbors in the region on shared security challenges. Palau’s government has been positioning the country as a partner for cooperation while emphasizing sovereignty and local benefits from any foreign engagement.