Present at the briefing at the House of Delegates Chamber was ROP President Johnson Toribiong and his cabinet ministers, Speaker Noah Idechong and all Delegates, and Senate President Mlib Tmetuchel and Senators.
Admiral French prepared a detailed power point presentation of all aspects of the U.S naval presence in the Pacific Region which projects power and influence, and provides a deterrent to any acts of aggression in this part of the world. This U.S. Defense posture in the region also helps to provide needed security for the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) for the Republic of Palau, Federated States of Micronesia and Republic of Marshal Islands.Admiral French also discussed the massive build-up of military facilities in Guam, in preparation for the relocation of 8,000 U.S forces and 9,000 associated civilians from Okinawa, Japan to Guam. Admiral French commented that this relocation of U.S troops will cost approximately $10B and certainly Palau businesses will have the opportunity to participate and benefit from this.After the presentation, some members of the House of Delegates had some questions and comments for Admiral French on matters regarding U.S. military activities and future plans in the region that specifically concerns Palau.Delegate Jonathan Isechal asked that, given that the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has appropriated funds for feasibility studies for improving the Peleliu and Angaur airport runways, if the U.S. military has any interest in this development as part of its defense posture as well as its military build-up in Guam. Other Delegates brought up issues concerning extension of benefits of retired military persons who reside in Palau and cannot enjoy their full benefits unless they lived within the United States and its Territories. Such benefits include loans for housing, small business developments, extension of benefits for college tuitions and medical care to apply with our local education and health institutions. Admiral French encouraged these discussions and said that the proper forum to initiate talks on these important issues should be during the Joint Committee Meetings (JCM) held every year between Palau and U.S. government officials.
