The Palau government offered its support to Taiwan for a 6.8 earthquake that hit the Southern part of the country on Sunday.
In a special statement from the Office of President Surangel S. Whipps Jr., Sunday, he said the country is offering its prayers to the people of Taiwan.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Taiwan. We heard the news of a series of tremors that have shaken Taiwan, particularly what seems to be a larger quake that caused much damage to buildings, a railway, and at least one house — according to news reports. We are reaching out to our friends in the government of the Republic of China – Taiwan,” the statement of the president said.
The statement added that the government of Palau is also praying for the safety of first responders as they conduct search and rescue missions.
News reports said that at least one person had died and 146 were injured by the quake.
On Sunday the Palau National Emergency Office (NEMO) in its public announcement said the earthquake did not pose any tsunami threats to Palau.
In the president’s statement, he also added that Palau continues to advocate for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, and this will be amplified at the 77th Session of the UN General Assembly. Minister of State Gustav Aitaro is attending the UNGA on behalf of the president and government of Palau.
Whipps said Taiwan’s recognition in the UN, such recognition and participation “could make important international assistance available to Taiwan in terms of preparing for and then recovering from natural disasters such as this recent series of quakes.”
Palau is one of the few nations which has a diplomatic relationship with Taiwan.