Surangel Whipps Jr is set to become the first Palauan President to make an official visit to Aotearoa New Zealand.
Whipps is in New Zealand this week and will be meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
The visit comes as Palau prepares to host this year’s Pacific Islands Forum later this year, with New Zealand set to host the annual leaders meeting in 2027.
Luxon is looking forward to discussing how two nations can continue to work together closely on the key issues facing the region, particularly ahead of their respective Forum hosting responsibilities, a statement from his office said.
“As consecutive Forum hosts, we want to make the most of the next two years. The Forum provides an important opportunity to work with partners and ensure their support reflects priorities set by Pacific countries,” he said.
Whipps will also meet several New Zealand government Cabinet ministers, a range of agencies and businesses, and iwi in Auckland and Rotorua.
Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro will formally welcome President Whipps at Government House in Auckland on Monday.
