OSAKA, Japan (April 28, 2025) — The Republic of Palau celebrated its National Day at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, on Monday, highlighting its rich cultural traditions and long-standing ties with Japan.
The day opened with a ceremony featuring remarks by Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr., who emphasized the special relationship between the two nations. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Palau and Japan, a milestone noted throughout the day’s festivities.
The highlight of the celebration was a rare performance by the Thafaas Men’s Dance Group, representing Palau’s remote Southwest Island of Sonsorol. The group showcased traditional dances seldom seen outside Palau, offering a unique glimpse into the island nation’s lesser-known cultural heritage. Typically, overseas performances feature dancers from Palau’s main islands, making the appearance by the Sonsorol group particularly significant.
“It was an incredible honor for us to represent our home country,” said Kaipo Recheungel, a member of the group. Recheungel, who previously lived and studied in Japan, described the opportunity to perform as especially meaningful.
The event drew a surprising number of Palauan families and friends living in Japan, who gathered in support and celebration. Following the performances, President Whipps visited the Palau Pavilion, where he was warmly greeted by Palauan students, workers, and residents living in Japan. Amid a sea of hugs, photographs, and reunions, local and national Japanese media turned their cameras toward Palau, bringing additional spotlight to the island nation on its special day.
Palau’s participation at Expo 2025 not only showcased its cultural heritage but also highlighted its ongoing commitment to sustainability, ocean conservation, and traditional knowledge as essential pillars for building future societies, a theme closely aligned with the Expo’s overall vision of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”