In his remarks Vice Speaker Merep reiterated the need for Palau to finally become Independent in the truest sense of the word. ‘Since October 1st, 1994 the Republic of Palau gained its Political Independence from the United States. What we need to do now is embark on the road to full Economic Independence and achieve true Sovereignty for our people,’ he commented.
Merep offers that in order to ensure the best and the brightest future for Palau, we cannot rely on Compact funding alone. Palau must take immediate actions to improve the standard of living for our people, develop a strong private sector economy, achieve greater self reliance, preserve our environment and provide for the vulnerable members of our society.Vice Speaker Merep said, ‘it is high time to, not just talk about these issues, but rather we should take actions to reflect the relevant issues and plans discussed in this forum today as outlined in the MTDS plan.’Merep believes it is important for everyone to take a look at what works for Palau, and what needs improving. He believes that Palau must embrace certain changes in order to continue to improve. ‘As a country, we should and will focus on implementing the best strategies to improve the environment, tourism, aquaculture and fisheries, agriculture and forestry, infrastructure, healthcare and social services.’
