Japan-Palau Summit Meeting

On July 17th, during his visit to Japan to participate in the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM10), President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. met with the Prime Minister of Japan, His Excellency KISHIDA Fumio, for a Japan-Palau Summit Meeting that commenced at 9:45 am and lasted approximately 20 minutes. The overview of the meeting is as follows:

1. Prime Minister Kishida expressed his intention at PALM 10 to strengthen the “Kizuna” (bonds of friendship) between Japan and the Pacific Island Countries in cooperation with President Whipps, to discuss cooperative initiatives aligned with the “2050 Strategy for a Blue Pacific Continent,” and to use the meeting as an opportunity to communicate both domestically and internationally about the shared direction of Japan and the Pacific Island Countries.

• Prime Minister Kishida mentioned that a chartered flight to Palau is scheduled to begin operating around March 2025. He also conveyed Japan’s decision to support the project for the refurbishment of the Minato Bridge (Minatobashi) and the introduction of the savings bond program. Additionally, as Palau has plans to expand fishing areas around its waters, the Prime Minister expressed Japan’s interest in conducting surveys to support the development of Palau’s fishing industry including the Ngatpang fishing port. President Whipps responded by expressing his gratitude for Japan’s sincere cooperation.

• Regarding the discharge of ALPS-treated water into the ocean, Prime Minister Kishida expressed deep appreciation to President Whipps for his confidence in Japan’s safety measures, both domestically and internationally. Japan reiterated its commitment to ensuring safety, and President Whipps reaffirmed his confidence in Japan’s efforts.

• On other topics, both leaders also exchanged candid views on various regional issues. Prime Minister Kishida expressed Japan’s intention to enhance Palau’s resilience in cybersecurity by strengthening the telecommunications network through Open Radio Access Network (RAN) and collaborating on cyber defense exercises. President Whipps expressed his appreciation for the initiatives.

The meeting between President Whipps and Prime Minister Kishida was marked by fruitful discussions and mutual commitments, with both leaders expressing optimism for  future  collaborations  to  advance  bilateral  relations  and  regional  stability.

Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between our nations, this meeting reaffirmed our enduring friendship and shared commitment to fostering cooperation and prosperity in the future.