Palau stands with Taiwan until death do us part: President

Palau stands firm in support of Taiwan, defying China's pressure, risking conflict, and strengthening ties with the US.

Pacific nation Palau will not cave to diplomatic pressure from China and will remain an ally of Taiwan "until death do us part", President Surangel Whipps said on Thursday (April 10, 2025).

One of the few remaining nations to recognise Taiwan's claim to statehood, Palau has repeatedly risked Beijing's ire over the years by refusing to reverse its stance.

"China has one goal, and that is for us to renounce Taiwan," Mr. Whipps said during a speech at an Australian think tank on Thursday.

"But we hope that they understand -- that decision is a sovereign decision and no country tells us who we should be friends with.

"We kind of believe in that principle, that when you're married, you're married until death do us part."

The Palauan archipelago -- a string of limestone islands and coral atolls -- lies about 800 kilometres (500 miles) east of the Philippines.

Mr. Whipps has overseen the expansion of US military interests since winning power in 2020.