Enhancing Bilateral Cooperation through the Japan-Palau Policy Consultation on International Cooperation

On September 20, 2024, the Japan-Palau Policy Consultation on International Cooperation was held at the Embassy of Japan, in commemoration of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The Japanese delegation included Ambassador ORIKASA Hiroyuki, Director ENOSHITA Kenji from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ International Cooperation Bureau, and Director IWANO Junnosuke, from the JICA Headquarters in Japan. Palau was represented by the Hon. Gustav N. Aitaro, who co-chaired the consultation, and with Hon. Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl, Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism, & Development (MHRCTD), Hon. Steven Victor, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, & the Environment (MAFE), and other senior officials from various ministries.
 
The timely policy consultation follows the discussions between President Surangel Whipps Jr. and Prime Minister Fumio KISHIDA at the Palau-Japan Summit meetings, which have occurred four times over the last three years. In alignment with the summit meetings, the policy consultation addressed the following topics: (1) The dispatch of Japanese experts and other personnel to support Palau's economic development; (2) projects targeting the sustainable development of Palau's fisheries industry, ensuring conservation and economic development, including port development; (3) specific projects to increase agricultural production; (4) bilateral cooperation to achieve the 2032 target for renewable energy; (5) Savings Bonds; (6) Ngatpang Port.
 
Japan and Palau reaffirmed their commitment to this robust partnership, alongside other like-minded organizations, NGOs, and Japanese companies that are providing assistance to the Republic of Palau.