(Press Release)
January 13, 2026
Japan Ministry of Defense
On January 13, 2026, Minister of Defense Koizumi, visiting Hawaii to attend the Honolulu Defense Forum, paid a courtesy call on President Whipps of the Republic of Palau. The summary is as follows:
- At the outset, Minister Koizumi stated that Palau is an important partner for Japan, sharing fundamental values such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, and that Japan would like to continue working together with Palau to realize a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. In response, President Whipps expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the Government of Japan to Palau.
- Minister Koizumi expressed his desire to continue strengthening cooperation particularly in the field of maritime security. Both Minister Koizumi and President Whipps reaffirmed that such cooperation between Japan and Palau contributes to regional peace and stability, and affirmed their commitment to further enhance collaboration between the two countries.