By Bernadette H. Carreon
Horizon news staff

President Remengesau branded as irresponsible the statement made by Del. Kerai Mariur on forging a diplomatic relationship with People’s Republic of China.
Remengesau said he was surprised that Mariur put in paper his intention of condemning the Taiwan government for alleged " dollar diplomacy."
The president said Mariur, a delegate from Ngarchelong said that the lawmaker’s presence in projects financed by the Taiwan government was supposed to be a sign of his support.
He said Mariur’s comment was a "a slap in the face" for the Executive Branch.
Remengesau said it is the Executive Branch that is entrusted with forming a diplomatic relationship with other countries.
A resolution being considered by Mariur cannot establish diplomatic ties with Mainland China, Remengesau said.
With this, traditional and elected leaders of Ngarchelong disagreed with Mariur in his intention to support a resolution condemning Taiwan for alleged "dollar diplomacy."
"Over the years, the Republic of China (Taiwan) has been a loyal friend and economic partner to the people of Palau and the state of Ngarchelong. The benefits of our partnership with Taiwan are clear to anyone that visits Ngarchelong State," in a letter signed to Mariur signed by the leaders and at least 92 supporting the Ngarchelong leaders.
The leaders said Taiwan’s assistance could be seen on the road, water, public buildings and dock projects which is valued to at least $4 million.
The letter said Mariur has attended ground breaking and ribbon –cutting ceremonies which mean that he is accepting this benefits.
"The people Ngarchelong feel gratitude for this assistance and we believe in standing with those who have stood with us rather than abandoning them when it appears temporarily advantageous to do so," the letter said.
The letter said the relationship of Palau with Taiwan go beyond economics.
"Delegate Mariur, as our representative in the Olbiil Era Kelulau , your first responsibility is to represent the people of Ngarchelong . Since the Nakamura administration, our nation has been strong partners with Taiwan and the people of Ngarchelong State have supported the policy wholeheartedly. Instead of interfering with the Executive Branch ‘s Constitutional right to conduct foreign affairs and pursuing a policy in conflict with our beliefs, we ask that you concentrate your efforts on moving our state and our nation forward," the letter said.