By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau— President Surangel Whipps Jr. is asking the Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK) to approve $237,000 to open a Palauan embassy in Canberra, Australia, citing the need to focus on partners committed to long-term development assistance.
The funding request is included in the proposed national budget for fiscal year 2026. Speaking at a press conference last Wednesday, Whipps explained that the decision to pursue an embassy in Australia—rather than reopening one in the European Union—is based on shifting international support as Palau nears its official graduation from aid eligibility.
“The EU is currently pushing the narrative that Palau has ‘graduated’ to a high-income country,” Whipps said. “Whether we like it or not, graduation is coming. By December 2026, we will no longer be eligible for financial assistance.”
Whipps emphasized that traditional allies like Japan, the United States, and Taiwan are expected to continue supporting Palau, while Australia remains undecided. Establishing a diplomatic mission in Canberra, he argued, could strengthen bilateral ties and ensure Australia’s continued engagement.
“There is an Australian embassy in Palau—we should reciprocate and establish one in Australia,” Whipps said. “We urged the OEK to forget about reopening in the EU and focus on our regional partners.”
Palau would join a growing number of Pacific Island nations with embassies or high commissions in Australia. These include Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, Nauru, and Kiribati.
Australia is a major development partner in the Pacific and plays a key role in regional infrastructure, security, and climate resilience programs. Whipps’ proposal underscores a strategic pivot toward regional diplomacy amid changes in global aid frameworks.