Tommy E. Remengesau Jr.
KOROR (Island Times/Pacnews) — Former Palau President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr., who is running for president again, has denied claims that his 2020 letter to then-U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper included a request for the construction of U.S. military bases in Palau.
“I want to clarify that our letter does not request the construction of a new U.S military base in Palau. Instead, we are advocating for the joint use of infrastructure that supports both our national needs and U.S military readiness,” Remengesau said.
During the recent presidential debate, President Surangel Whipps Jr. referenced the letter while discussing the growing U.S military presence in Palau, suggesting that Remengesau had invited the construction of military bases.
This statement has also been echoed in some international media reports.
In response, Remengesau emphasized that his request focused on infrastructure improvements for joint use by the U.S military and Palau.
“Specifically, we are seeking enhancements to existing facilities and infrastructures that can be used collaboratively and for mutual benefit,” he said. This includes “upgrading port facilities, airstrips, and training grounds” to better serve both nations’ needs, he said.
“The proposed joint use of infrastructure is intended to foster a more effective and mutually beneficial partnership. It is not about creating new bases but about enhancing the existing framework of cooperation,” Remengesau said.
His clarification comes amid ongoing public and social media discussions about the U.S. military’s role in Palau, particularly as the island nation navigates its security needs and international partnerships.
