By Kambes Kesolei
Koror-- Taiwan President Lai Ching-te will lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Palau’s new One-Stop Shop during his visit from Dec. 5 to 6, according
to a press statement from Taiwan’s Office of the President.
Lai’s visit to Palau will conclude a tour of Taiwan’s three remaining Pacific allies, which include Tuvalu and the Marshall Islands.
Lai's Pacific tour from Nov. 30 to Dec. 6 underscores Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening ties with its Pacific partners.
In Palau, Lai will hold discussions with President Surangel Whipps Jr., focusing on major bilateral cooperative projects, Pacific regional issues and international
matters.
The visit also includes meetings with Whipps' cabinet and an address to Palau’s national legislature, the Olbiil Era Kelulau.
Whipps will host a state banquet that will further highlight the diplomatic engagement.
Lai will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Pan Men-an, secretary general to the president, and Lin Chia-lung, minister of foreign affairs.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marks the completion of Palau’s One-Stop Shop, a modern facility designed to consolidate essential government services under one roof, enhancing efficiency and convenience for the public.
Construction of the facility, which is estimated to cost $5.3 million, began in 2021. Earlier phases of the project, including design, demolition, and temporary housing for services, cost $892,000. An additional $490,000 has been allocated for paving the parking area.
Situated in downtown Koror, the building’s design blends Palauan cultural elements, such as the A-frame architecture of traditional bai, with modern aesthetics.
It stands adjacent to landmarks like the Old OEK Building, Office of the Vice
President, Central Police Station and the Palau National Gym.
The One-Stop Shop will house key government offices, including the Treasury
Tax & Revenue, Labor and Immigration, and Social Security Administration, which had been temporarily relocated during construction.
Lai’s visit reflects Taiwan’s commitment to its Pacific allies, in response to “warm invitations” from Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands and Palau.
This trip aims to reaffirm Taiwan’s partnerships in the region, strengthening
ties through cooperation and development initiatives.
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