Implementation of Economic and Social Development

Implementation of Economic and Social Development

On October 30th, 2017, Mr. Toshiyuki Yamada, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan in Palau, and Honorable Faustina K. Rehuher-Marugg, Minister of State of the Republic of Palau, exchanged notes on the Japan’s grant aid of up to 200 million yen (approximately $1.8 million) for the purpose of the implementation of Economic and Social Development of the Republic of Palau.
 
Due to its scattered locations, limited domestic market and the remoteness from the international market, Palau faces developmental difficulties. Furthermore, Palau imports most of its living supplies from overseas and has no significant industry besides tourism, which has become a huge financial burden for the Government. This project is designed to support Palau to overcome these vulnerabilities by especially focusing on the promotion of sustainable infrastructure development and the improvement of basic social services. This project is also coordinated in accordance with the assistance policies decided in the 7th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM7) in 2015.
 
At the ceremony, Minister Marugg stated that historical and cultural ties between Palau and Japan are strong and bilateral relationship between two countries is very important. In her remarks, Minister Marugg appreciated Japan’s grant aid and also thanked Japan’s support including various kinds of economic and educational cooperation so far. Minister Marugg said Palau and Japan are great partners and wished to continue to collaborate together closely with Japan.
 
After Minister Marugg’s remarks, Ambassador Yamada expressed his wish that this grant aid would help Palau overcome vulnerability and achieve sustainable development. Ambassador Yamada hoped that this grant aid will contribute to Palau’s effort on natural environment conservancy policies, which is strongly initiated by President Remengesau. Furthermore, in his remarks, Ambassador Yamada mentioned that this year 2017 is “the Year of the Family,” and fully supports President’s idea to ensure that no Palauan is left behind and increase support for the youth, aged and vulnerable populations. Ambassador Yamada also hoped that this grant aid will contribute to President’s goal of this year. By concluding his speech, Ambassador Yamada wished that the close and warm relationship between Japan and Palau will continue to flourish and looked forward to working together with Palau in the years to come.
 
For further information about this grant aid, please contact 488-6455 or visit the Japan Embassy website at https://www.palau.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_ja/index.html.