Pres. Whipps and Taiwan Foreign Minister Wu cut ribbon to officially open Elab Abai Community Center Building

President Surangel Whipps Jr. attended his first official function after inauguration which is a Taiwan Stimulus Project ribbon-cutting ceremony of Elab Abai Community Building in Ngaraard State together with Taiwan Special Envoy Foreign Minister Dr. Joseph Wu on January 21, 2021 at 4pm. Many local residents have been longing for the completion of this project and were glad to attend this grand opening.
Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu was invited to give a special remarks and said, “Taiwan Government provides Palau Government Stimulus Grant each year on state-level projects such as interstate roads, state office buildings, water distribution systems and recreational parks which benefit local residents by creating a safer and more comfortable living environment and boosting the local economy.”
“Palau like those of many other countries suffered from the COVID-19 pandemic. Taiwan as a brother of Palau is committed to helping Palau through thick and thin. The completion of this community building demonstrates the robust partnership between our two countries. Taiwan will continue to support Palau and help Palau overcome the economic and social challenges.”
“The previous Abai in Elab, located along the coastline of Ngesang, was heavily damaged and flooded with seawater during Typhoon Bopha in 2012 and Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. This newly-completed two-story edifice will provide local residents with a good venue not only to hold events but also to seek shelter from storms,” Minister Wu said.