Palau President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr told the United Nations General Assembly last week that peace, justice, and inclusivity must guide the international community, warning that wars and political exclusions threaten global stability.
“Palau knows too well the heavy cost of war, having endured the devastation of World War II on our islands. That history reminds us not only of the suffering left in the wake of conflict, but also of the sacred value of peace,” Whipps said.
He said Palau has always stood for “the dignity of every human life and for the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and respect for international law.”
On the Israel-Palestine conflict, Whipps said a lasting solution must deliver dignity and security for both sides.
“We believe that a durable solution — one that envisions two peoples, Israelis and Palestinians, living in two democratic states side by side, in peace, security, and dignity, within mutually recognised borders — is essential for a lasting peace,” he told the Assembly.
Whipps also condemned Russia’s war in Ukraine, calling it “a stark reminder that when international law is disregarded, peace everywhere is placed at risk.”
“It is only through respect for the rules-based order that all nations, large and small, can live in security,” he said.
Turning to Taiwan, Whipps accused China of wrongly interpreting UNGA Resolution 2758 and said this has resulted in the silencing of millions of people.
“Years ago, China wrongly interpreted UNGA Resolution 2758. Today, it continues to claim that Taiwan is part of the PRC, which results in the silencing of 23 million voices and keeping Taiwan from fully participating in the UN system and contributing to the world,” Whipps said.
He argued that excluding Taiwan undermines the very principles of the UN.
“Palau believes that inclusivity strengthens the United Nations, and that no community should be barred from contributing to the solutions our world so desperately needs,” he said.
Whipps urged the world body to recommit to principles that protect peace and strengthen international cooperation.
