Enhancing Palau’s Border Management Facilities for Efficient and Effective Border Security and Immigration Processes

On February 8, 2024, at a handover ceremony of Information Technology (IT) equipment with the total value of $50,420.44 for the Division of Immigration of the Bureau of Customs & Border Protection, Ministry of Finance, His Excellency ORIKASA Hiroyuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of Palau, emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation and technical support to enhance border security and streamline immigration processes in Palau.
 
The assistance to the Bureau of Customs & Border Protection to replace the Bureau’s IT equipment currently used at the Palau’s Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, and to procure items to strengthen the airport’s medical preparedness, was provided through the International Organization for Migration’s (IOM) support under the “Strengthening Border Management in the Pacific.” The project aims to support the Bureau carry out its core immigration and emigration functions.
 
“After the pandemic, many people began visiting Palau to experience its pristine and breathtaking nature. With the increase in the number of visitors, Palau needs to establish a border control system that can adequately respond to public health threats in order to promote economic activity through tourism. In addition, Palau is also exposed to greater risks related to transnational crime. As such, it is critical to ensure smooth and streamlined immigration processes. This project will not only provide a convenient immigration experience for visitors, but will also realize credible border management. Japan will continue to assist Palau to improve its ability to effectively detect and respond to security threats, which I believe will help foster trust and mutual understanding between our nations. Together, we can create a safer and more secure environment for the citizens and uphold the rule of law,” said Ambassador Orikasa. “The provision of technical support, such as the IT equipment being handed over today, is an integral part of modernizing the immigration processes and improving efficiency,” Ambassador Orikasa continued.
 
Ambassador Orikasa also emphasized the importance of follow-up by both the Embassy of Japan and the project beneficiary to ensure that the project objectives are fully realized.

The handover ceremony was held at the Division of Immigration office in Koror and was attended by, Mr. Flavin Misech, Chief of Immigration, Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, Ministry of Finance, Mr. Salvatore Sortino, IOM Chief of Mission, Mr. Yohan Senarath, Head of IOM Sub Office along with Ambassador Orikasa.