(Taipei, August 19) Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) bestowed the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon on outgoing Palauan Ambassador to Taiwan Dilmei Louisa Olkeriil, in recognition of her contribution to the promotion of ties between the two countries over the past eight years.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement on Friday said Olkeriil has actively “promoted exchanges and cooperation on various issues such as agriculture, education, culture, healthcare and tourism between Taiwan and Palau.” Olkeriil in response said Palau and Taiwan shares the same values of democracy, freedom and human rights and is honored to be Taiwan’s ally.
MOFA lauded Ambassador Olkeriil for helping to facilitate high level exchange between Palau and Taiwan during her tenure as the Ambassador to Taiwan.
One of Taiwan’s 14 remaining allies, Palau established official diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 1999.
Olkeriil has been serving as Palau’s Ambassador to Taiwan since 2014, appointed by former President Tommy Remengesau Jr. and served as Ambassador in his two terms.
She continued serving as the Ambassador for a year and half, into President Surangel Whipps Jr. term.
President Surangel Whipps Jr. appointed David Orrukem, former Airai State Speaker, as the next Ambassador to Taiwan. Senate confirmed Orrukem’s nomination unanimously. It is expected that Orrukem will be sworn in shortly as the new Ambassador to the Republic of China, Taiwan. (By: L.N. Reklai)