Japan-Palau Relations

May 8, 2022
Japanese
Foreign Minister Hayashi shaking hands with President WHIPPS
President WHIPPS and Foreign Minister HAYASHI at the Courtesy Call

On May 8, commencing at 9:05 a.m. local time (same time, JST) for approximately 80 minutes, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who was visiting the Republic of Palau, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Surangel S. WHIPPS, Jr., President of the Republic of Palau. The overview is as follows.

  1. At the outset, following President Whipps's words of welcome, Minister Hayashi stated that he was pleased to visit Palau, which is a friend with a long history of exchange. Minister Hayashi strongly condemned Russia's aggression against Ukraine, pointing out the importance of solidarity among countries that share fundamental values in the midst of a situation in which very foundation of the international order faces jeopardy by this aggression. They confirmed the importance of further strengthening bilateral relations between Japan and Palau and promoting coordination between the two countries to realize a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific”.
  2. Minister Hayashi mentioned cooperation related to maritime security, including Japan’s support for Palau's coast guard authorities and explained the progress of Japan's assistance to Palau in the five priority areas announced at the Ninth Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting last year. Minister Hayashi then stated that Japan would continue to provide strong support to Palau based on the Pacific Bond (KIZUNA) Policy. In response, President Whipps expressed his appreciation for Japan's support so far and his expectation that many tourists, including Japanese, will visit Palau through the completion of the new Palau International Airport Terminal. In addition, President Whipps gave a detailed explanation about the economic policy for further development of Palau, and the two sides confirmed that they would cooperate with each other for the expansion of investment to Palau.
  3. The two sides also concurred to continue cooperation in the field of fisheries to ensure the stable operation of Japanese fishing vessels in Palauan waters. They also concurred to cooperate in the areas of unexploded ordnance disposal and agriculture.
  4. The two sides discussed the situation in the Pacific Island countries, including the security cooperation agreement between China and Solomon Islands, They affirmed the importance of continued close coordination among countries concerned for the sake of peace and stability in the region.
(Reference) Five Priority Areas of the 9th Pacific Island Leaders' Meeting (PALM 9)

(1) COVID-19 Response and Recovery, (2) Sustainable Oceans based on the Rule of Law, (3) Climate Change and Disaster Resilience, (4) Strengthening Foundation for Sustainable and Resilient Economic Development, and (5) People-to-People Exchanges and Human Resource Development

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