Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru of Japan and President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. of Palau met in Japan on Feb. 12, where they agreed to reinforce the "tokubetsu" (special) relationship between the two nations. The summit, which lasted approximately 60 minutes, began with a salute and guard of honor ceremony.
Both leaders were elected in Nov. 2024. This visit marked Whipps' first trip to Japan following his Jan. 16 inauguration.
Whipps arrived in Japan on Feb. 10 to meet with the Prime Minister and other high-level officials with the goal of bolstering the already strong relationship and exploring future partnership opportunities like direct flight service between Japan and Palau, according to a press release.
On Feb. 12, the two leaders met. Ishiba welcomed Whipps' visit and acknowledged the robust "kizuna" (bonds) fostered through a long history of exchange. The Prime Minister said he was eager to build on the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations. He also conveyed his appreciation for Palau's continued support regarding the discharge of ALPS treated water into the sea.
Whipps affirmed the special nature of the Palau-Japan relationship and his desire to enhance bilateral relations.
The discussions also covered Japan's commitment to Palau’s resilient and sustainable development: Japan Airlines' plans for direct charter flights, and cooperation for developing a sustainable fishing industry, including the Ngatpang fishing port.
Ishiba expressed gratitude for Palau's cooperation in the recovery of Japanese war remains and welcomed Palau’s participation in the Expo 2025 and GREEN×EXPO 2027. Both leaders also reaffirmed their collaboration toward the 11th Pacific Island Leaders Meeting.
Prior to his departure to Japan, Whipps met with Hiroyuki Orikasa, Japan’s ambassador to Palau, in a ceremony celebrating the completion of a project that connects important pipelines between Koror and Airai along the causeway near the Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge. mbj
Palau’s President and Japan's Prime Minister Agree to Strengthen “Tokubetsu” Relationship
Palau’s President and Japan's Prime Minister Agree to Strengthen “Tokubetsu” Relationship
- Date Posted: Feb 13, 2025
- News: Japan, Palau
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Palau’s President and Japan's Prime Minister Agree to Strengthen “Tokubetsu” Relationship
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