The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan) announced that the inauguration ceremony for the new President and Vice President of the Republic of Palau is scheduled to take place on January 16th, local time. Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Wu will lead a delegation as a special envoy representing the government and people of Taiwan to congratulate Palau, demonstrating the strong friendship between Taiwan and Palau.
Palau held presidential, vice presidential, and parliamentary elections in November 2024, with the incumbent President Surangel Whipps Jr. winning re-election and Vice President-elect Raynold Oilouch also elected with a significant majority.
In line with President Tsai Ing-wen’s “Prosperous Southern Islands, Sustainable Wisdom” tour to Pacific allied countries in December last year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Minister Joseph Wu’s visit aims to promote the three major goals of “Sustainable Wisdom,” “Democratic Sustainability,” and “Friendship Sustainability.” This visit seeks to actualize the vision of close economic and trade cooperation between Taiwan and Palau outlined during Tsai’s visit to Palau alongside President Whipps Jr.
Minister Joseph Wu’s delegation departed on January 15th and is scheduled to return on the 18th. During the visit, they will explore the local business and investment environment in Palau with a Taiwanese industry delegation. By leveraging Taiwan’s industrial strengths and comprehensive diplomatic strategies, they will actively promote the “Prosperity Project” to bolster Palau’s economic resilience and advance regional democratic, peaceful, and prosperous development.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Minister Joseph Wu’s visit will convey President Tsai Ing-wen’s sincere congratulations to President Whipps Jr., Vice President Oilouch, and various political figures in Palau. Discussions on Taiwan-Palau cooperation projects will also be held. Furthermore, the visit will involve exploring opportunities for industry exchanges and technological cooperation between the two countries in tourism, healthcare, port operations, aquaculture, ICT, and more to strengthen Taiwan’s advantages globally and assist in upgrading Palau’s industries.
Taiwan and the Republic of Palau share a strong friendship based on mutual democratic values, freedom, and human rights. The two countries have collaborated closely in areas such as climate change, infrastructure, agricultural and fisheries technology, healthcare, education, culture, tourism, judiciary, humanitarian aid, and sports, yielding fruitful results and earning recognition from various sectors in Palau. Building upon this solid foundation, both nations will continue their cooperation to promote a mutually beneficial partnership, deepen Taiwan-Palau friendship, and realize a vision of economic prosperity for friendly nations.