KOROR, Palau — The United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement presents an opportunity for other nations to take the lead in global climate action, Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. said.
“I think what is more important now is that the rest of our partners—whether Europe, Australia, especially Australia, which is interested in hosting COP—step up to lead for the Pacific,” Whipps said, also naming Japan and South Korea as key partners.
Whipps added that the situation offers China and India a chance to demonstrate their commitment to climate action.
Pacific Island leaders have repeatedly emphasized that climate change is the greatest threat to the region. The Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), a coalition of low-lying island nations, includes a significant number of Pacific nations advocating for stronger climate policies.
Palau, which currently chairs AOSIS, will continue pushing for global climate action despite the U.S. withdrawal, said Palauan Ambassador Ilana Seid. She confirmed that AOSIS funding remains unaffected but acknowledged that negotiations will be more challenging without U.S. participation.
Seid noted that AOSIS will work closely with G20 nations and U.S. state governments to accelerate the transition to renewable energy while also urging the U.S. federal government to reengage in climate discussions.
“Our efforts should not be deterred because the U.S. has pulled out of COP. If anything, it’s an incentive for us to work even harder,” Whipps said.