During the credential ceremony, Ambassador Seam stressed the long-standing relation and friendship between the European Union and the Republic of Palau, based on a legacy of shared values, common priorities and successful development cooperation.

''The Republic of Palau and the European Union have developed a close relationship in the Pacific, based on the shared values of democracy, human rights and good governance, common priorities on climate change, sustainable development and oceans and a successful development cooperation focused on the energy sector under the 11th European Development Fund.’’ Ambassador Seam told President Whipps.

Ambassador Seam congratulated President Whipps for achieving herd immunity against the coronavirus among its adult population and for keeping his country free of COVID-19. He reaffirmed the European Union’s position in favour of a balanced and inclusive regional approach in the Pacific, referring to the European Union as the most successful example of regional integration in the world.

Ambassador Seam underlined that the new European Union Strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific offers new opportunities for partnership with the Republic of Palau, with a view to achieving stability, security, prosperity and sustainable development.

 “I want to take this opportunity to thank the Republic of Palau for taking the innovative step to allow the presentation of my letters of credence as the EU Ambassador accredited in Ngerulmud via videoconference.  Hopefully, the success of the Republic of Palau against COVID-19 will soon allow me to visit in person.” concluded Ambassador Seam.

(ENDS)

For further information, contact: Mohammed Nazeem KASIM, EU Press & Information Officer

Suva, Fiji. Tel: +679 3313-633 Email: Mohammed-Nazeem.KASIM@eeas.europa.eu or delegation-fiji@eeas.europa.eu