Palau, an island nation in the Pacific, and Japan have fostered close friendship across multiple dimensions. Palau, which served as the chair of the group of Pacific small island countries from 2023 to 2024, now plays a key role as the President of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), representing the collective interests of 39 member countries. Palau also continues to serve as a co-chair of the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy (Ocean Panel). President Surrangel Whipps Jr., who began his second term in January this year, demonstrates strong leadership at the national, regional, and international levels by promoting sustainability policy initiatives, including those focused on sustainable blue economies, climate action, and international partnerships. Palau is set to host the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) in August 2026. President Whipps is visiting Japan for the fourth time this year, exemplifying the importance Palau places on strengthening its partnership with Japan. He will also attend the ceremony marking the commencement of direct flight services between Narita and Koror on 29 October 2025. At this special forum, President Whipps will provide updates on Palau’s policy initiatives to promote sustainability and well-being globally—particularly among small island countries—and to advance international cooperation, especially with Japan. 

Those who wish to participate are kindly requested to register via this page by 23:59 (JST) on Sunday, October 26.
Please note that registration may close once capacity is reached, so early registration is recommended.

*Please note that the event program and speakers are subject to change.