This was Toribiong’s first official visit to the U.S. capital since he was inaugurated on Jan. 15.
At the meeting, Toribiong and Salazar discussed the Compact of Free Association between the U.S. and Palau, the financial provisions of which are scheduled to expire on Sept. 30, 2009.
Upon emerging from the United Nation’s Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, Palau entered into a 50-year Compact of Free Association with the U.S. which began on October 1, 1994. The financial provisions are schedule to expire after 15 years.
Salazar assured Toribiong that Palau would remain on the department’s agenda and described ongoing efforts to staff positions at the highest levels of the department and its Office of Insular Affairs.
He said his staff would be working collaboratively with the Department of State and other federal agencies to ensure a cohesive and unified approach to Palau.
Salazar thanked Toribiong and Palau’s Ambassador to the United States Hersey Kyota for the service and sacrifices of the citizens of Palau who proudly serve in the U.S. armed forces.
Citizens of Palau are among the highest per capita members of the armed forces, compared to other U.S. jurisdictions.
Toribiong was accompanied at the meeting by his Minister of State Sandra Pierantozzi, Kyota and Palau Sen. Regina K. Mesebeluu.
Also attending were acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs Nikolao Pula, Director of Budgets and Compact Grants Tom Bussanich, and Palau desk officer Tanya Harris Joshua.
Alcy Frelick, director of the Office of Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Affairs at the Department of State, also attended.
