Palau’s President and Japan's Prime Minister Agree to Strengthen “Tokubetsu” Relationship

Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru of Japan and President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. of Palau met in Japan on Feb. 12, where they agreed to reinforce the "tokubetsu" (special) relationship between the two nations. The summit, which lasted approximately 60 minutes, began with a salute and guard of honor ceremony.

President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. visits Japan. Photo courtesy Japan Cabinet Media.

Both leaders were elected in Nov. 2024. This visit marked Whipps' first trip to Japan following his Jan. 16 inauguration.

Whipps arrived in Japan on Feb. 10 to meet with the Prime Minister and other high-level officials with the goal of bolstering the already strong relationship and exploring future partnership opportunities like direct flight service between Japan and Palau, according to a press release.

From left: President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr., of Palau, and Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, of Japan. Photo courtesy Japan Cabinet Media.

On Feb. 12, the two leaders met. Ishiba welcomed Whipps' visit and acknowledged the robust "kizuna" (bonds) fostered through a long history of exchange. The Prime Minister said he was eager to build on the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations. He also conveyed his appreciation for Palau's continued support regarding the discharge of ALPS treated water into the sea.

Whipps affirmed the special nature of the Palau-Japan relationship and his desire to enhance bilateral relations.

The discussions also covered Japan's commitment to Palau’s resilient and sustainable development: Japan Airlines' plans for direct charter flights, and cooperation for developing a sustainable fishing industry, including the Ngatpang fishing port.

Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru of Japan and President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. of Palau walk through the color guard in Japan. Photo courtesy Japan Cabinet Media.

Ishiba expressed gratitude for Palau's cooperation in the recovery of Japanese war remains and welcomed Palau’s participation in the Expo 2025 and GREEN×EXPO 2027. Both leaders also reaffirmed their collaboration toward the 11th Pacific Island Leaders Meeting.

President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr., H.E. Ambassador Hiroyuki Orikasa, Koror State Legislator, OEK Senators and Delegates and MPII representatives cut the ribbon on the Ngetmeduch causeway culvert rehabilitation project. Photo courtesy Office of the President.

Prior to his departure to Japan, Whipps met with Hiroyuki Orikasa, Japan’s ambassador to Palau, in a ceremony celebrating the completion of a project that connects important pipelines between Koror and Airai along the causeway near the Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge. mbj

Palau’s President and Japan's Prime Minister Agree to Strengthen “Tokubetsu” Relationship