State Minister Temmy Shmull in his remarks during the celebration said that the “government of Palau are forever grateful for the generous contributions and development assistance your government has provided over the years.”
Japan Charge d Affaires Kunio Nakamura on the Emperor’s behalf said that the his Majesty the Emperor of Japan.Nakamura said that his Majesty was born on Dec. 23, 1933 and was seated on the Chrysanthemum Throne in November 1989 and that the Emperor will soon enter his 20th year as Emperor of Japan.“In return please accept the heartfelt appreciation from the government and people of Japan his Excellency President Tommy Remengesau and the officers and members of his administration. Their successful leadership of this beautiful country for eight years has brought the Japan-Palau relations to new heights,” Nakamura said.The reception was held at the Palau Pacific Resort and attended by Paramount Chief Ibedul, Reklai President –elect Johnson Toribiong, Senate President Surangel Whipps, House Speaker Anthony Bells, Vice President –elect Kerai Mariur and incumbent senators and delegates.Nakamura said that during President Remengesau’s administration there were three important highlights that were essential to the relationship of the two countries.Nakamura said the Remengesau administration helped strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries like the Joint Japan-Palau Secretariat for International Coral Reef Initiative, the visits to Japan.He said that Palau was also helpful in the joint cooperation at various international for a like the United Nations, Pacific Islands Forum Summit meetings, international for a, like the United Nations, Pacific Islands Forum Summit meetings, International Whaling Commission and Asia Pacific Telecommunity, among others.“Truly your government’s dedication, hard work and warm friendship contributed much to the strong ties that now exist between Japan and Palau,” Nakamura said.Shmull for his part said that the compliments are mutual and that Palau will always seek the advice and cooperation of Japan.
