Japan has pledged continued support for Palau and closer cooperation ahead of key Pacific regional meetings, following talks between Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr in Tokyo.
The meeting took place on Tuesday on the sidelines of the Island States Ocean Summit, which is being organised by the Nippon Foundation in Tokyo from 03 – 04 June.
During the meeting, Foreign Minister Motegi reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Palau across a range of sectors.
Minister MotegiI expressed his intention to continue supporting Palau’s efforts across a wide range of fields, while taking into account Palau’s needs, under the vision of the updated FOIP.
The Japanese Foreign Minister also highlighted the importance of working closely with Palau as it prepares to assume the chairmanship of the Pacific Islands Forum.
In addition, Minister Motegi stated that he would like to work closely with Palau, the next chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), toward the success of the 11th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM11), scheduled to be held in Japan next year, and the PALM Ministerial Interim Meeting scheduled to be held prior to that.
President Whipps thanked Japan for its longstanding support and development assistance to Palau.
President Whipps expressed his appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their contribution to Palau and stated that he is committed to working closely with Japan for further development of “tokubetsu” relations between the two countries.
The meeting highlighted the close relationship between Japan and Palau as both countries prepare for major regional engagements, including PALM11 and discussions on Pacific development and ocean governance.
