U.S. Congresswoman Young Kim, R-Calif., chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific.
File photo
KOROR (Island Times/Pacnews) — A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation visiting Palau this week reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to the island nation, emphasizing the enduring partnership under the Compact of Free Association amid growing geopolitical tensions in the Pacific.
The delegation was led by Rep. Young Kim, R-Calif., chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific. It included Rep Susie Lee, D-Nev., a member of the House Appropriations Committee, and Rep. Johnny Olszewski, D-Md, who serves on the foreign affairs subcommittee.
Speaking at a media briefing, Kim emphasized the significance of her first visit to Palau and praised the close U.S.-Palau relationship.
“The U.S. shares a uniquely close and enduring bond with Palau—grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and deep historical ties,” Kim said.
She highlighted the bipartisan support for last year’s Compact renewal legislation, calling it a “powerful symbol” of the countries’ joint commitment to regional security and prosperity.
Kim also commended Palau for its continued diplomatic recognition of Taiwan, expressing appreciation for President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s vocal support of Taipei.
“That courage does not go unnoticed,” she said. “The United States stands with Palau and Taiwan as we face increasing pressure from the Chinese government.”
Rep. Susie Lee emphasized Palau’s critical role in U.S defense strategy and recognized the longstanding service of Palauan citizens in the U.S. military.
“As a member of the Defense Appropriations Committee, I see how integral Palau is to our forward presence in the Pacific,” Lee said.
She reiterated congressional support for developing joint-use military facilities in Palau under the Compact framework, saying such projects are “vital to enhancing both Palau’s and the United States’ ability to respond to regional security challenges.”
Despite the pledges of support, some Palauans remain skeptical. Concerns persist over the consistency of U.S. commitments, particularly in light of recent cuts to similar programs in the United States, which have raised questions about funding reliability for Palauan veterans and other Compact-related initiatives.
Olszewski, addressing the press as a newer member of the U.S. Congress, said the delegation’s goal was not only to reinforce diplomatic and defense ties but to understand local priorities. “We are here not just to speak, but to listen,” he said.
“We want to learn how we can work together as equal partners.”
He also voiced support for a Pacific future led by Pacific communities, pledging continued U.S. investment in education, environmental protection, and democratic values across the region.
