Ngerulmud, 6 December 2021 (TDI): Australian Foreign Minister and Minister for Women, Marise Payne visited Palau from 2nd to 4th December. The agenda of her visit was to meet the President of the country to discuss strong and growing relations between Palau and Australia, as well as the Pacific Step-up.
During her visit, the Australian Foreign Minister paid a visit to the National Marine Sanctuary of Palau. The two partners are collaborating to ensure impregnable regional maritime security.
In this regard, Australia also donated a Guardian-class Patrol Boat, the PSS Remeliik II to Palau. Australia is keen to protect the National Marine Sanctuary of Palau, therefore it contributes to safeguarding the region through the Pacific Maritime Security Program.
Whilst staying in Palau, Maris Payne met with the Minister of State of Palau, Gustav Aitaro. In the meeting with the State Minister, she discussed regional, economic, and security as well as climate challenges.
The two underscored increased cooperation to strengthen the partnership as Australia and Palau both are committed to regional stability and prosperity.
The Australian Foreign Minister also met with the President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr. to discuss increased cooperation between the two partners. Marise Payne enunciated her country’s commitment to the Pacific Step Up as well as addressing security, development and economic challenges in the region.
In addition, the Foreign Minister joined President Whipps at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landing station site for Palau’s second internet cable. The project is jointly funded by Australia, Japan, the US, and Palau. Australia is devoted to supporting secure and reliable digital connectivity in Palau.
Later, during her official visit, Marise Payne met with the Australian Ambassador, Richelle Turner to inaugurate an Australian Embassy in Koror. President Whipps was also present at the occasion. The Embassy is the portrayal of Palau’s significance for Australia in the Pacific region.
The Australian Foreign Minister also toured the Belau National Hospital with Palau’s President. The two countries have been supporting each other in the ordeal inflicted because of the Covid-19 pandemic. She visited the hospital to assess its pandemic response along with the digitization of its health system; which is supported by Australia.
Furthermore, Marise Payne also met with women leaders of Palau including the country’s Vice President, Sengebau Senior. She discussed Australia’s support for the empowerment of women through ventures like Pacific Women Lead. Australia works with partners across the Pacific to promote gender equality.
