Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr., in an interview with Kyodo News on May 26, defended the decision to maintain official diplomatic ties with Taiwan despite growing pressure from China to sever the relationship.
Whipps emphasized that Palau considers Taiwan a key partner in many sectors, including health, education, and energy. "We support peace and stability in the Pacific region, and our relationship with Taiwan is part of our diversified diplomatic strategy," he said.
Additionally, the Palauan president expressed a desire to advance comprehensive cooperation with Japan in three key areas: economic development, maritime security, and ocean conservation. He called on Japan to support the development of coastal infrastructure, renewable energy, and the enhancement of Palau's maritime patrol capabilities.
According to Whipps, maritime security cooperation is a top priority to address challenges such as illegal fishing and to ensure freedom of navigation. "Palau fully supports the rules-based international order and wants Japan to play a more active role in the region," he stressed.
On ocean conservation, Palau—a leader in marine ecosystem protection—proposed that Japan collaborate on research projects and climate change response, particularly concerning sea-level rise and coral reef preservation.
The Palauan president's statements come as China ramps up diplomatic pressure to persuade Pacific island states to end formal ties with Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a renegade province.
