Palau President Defends Ties with Taiwan: Beijing Has No Standing to Demand Severance

According to Kyodo News, Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. firmly defended Palau's diplomatic relations with Taiwan on the 2nd, despite facing pressure from China. He also called for closer cooperation with Japan in areas such as economic development, maritime security, and marine conservation. The two-day inaugural 'Island States Ocean Summit' begins tomorrow in Tokyo, with Whipps serving as co-chair. In an interview with Kyodo News in Tokyo today, he pointed out that small island nations must have the right to freely choose their international partners. Whipps noted that Beijing has repeatedly offered economic incentives to persuade Palau to switch its diplomatic allegiance. However, he emphasized that diplomatic decisions are matters of national sovereignty and should not be dictated by major powers. He stated, 'You have no standing to tell me I cannot recognize Taiwan. This is our country's sovereign choice.' Palau has maintained diplomatic relations with Taiwan since 1999. Whipps also accused Chinese vessels of conducting unauthorized research and survey activities within Palau's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Meanwhile, Palauan authorities have obtained evidence of equipment deployed within their waters. He further pointed out that some of Beijing's actions reflect a general mindset China holds toward small island nations and their maritime rights. Whipps noted, 'When I spoke to a Chinese ambassador, this is what he said to me: "You are a small country and you shouldn't have such a vast ocean." I think that is incorrect.' He stated that such activities by China not only violate international law but also undermine the sustainable management of marine resources. Whipps reiterated Palau's firm support for a 'free and open Indo-Pacific' based on international rules. Whipps also expressed that Palau hopes for expanded Japanese investment in tourism, fisheries, and other industries, and to jointly advocate for a rules-based order and sustainable ocean management. He emphasized that Palau will use the inaugural Island States Ocean Summit to advocate for stronger ocean governance, sustainable fishing practices, and easier access to climate and development funding.