Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, Assistant Minister for the Public Service, Assistant Minister to the Attorney-General
Assistant Minister Patrick Gorman will today travel to the Republic of Palau to represent Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the Presidential Inauguration of His Excellency Surangel Whipps Jr.
President Whipps' inauguration on 16 January 2025 marks the commencement of the 12th Constitutional Government of the Republic of Palau. President Whipps will be inaugurated as President for a second term.
Assistant Minister Gorman's visit will affirm Australia's longstanding relationship with the Republic of Palau, and the entire Pacific family. The Assistant Minister will hold bilateral meetings with President Whipps and a range of Pacific leaders.
Last year, Australia and Palau celebrated 30 years of diplomatic relations. Our two nations will continue to work on shared commitments to tackle climate change, strengthen maritime surveillance and regional security, and connectivity.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister Patrick Gorman
"I am honoured to attend the Presidential Inauguration of His Excellency, Surangel Whipps Jr."
"I am looking forward to a second bilateral meeting with President Whipps after a bilateral meeting with His Excellency last year."
"Australia and Palau are close friends and members of the Pacific family. We have longstanding bonds with the Pacific, forged in times of crisis but sustained in peace and in prosperity."
"We share a vision for a peaceful, stable, prosperous and unified region. I welcome the opportunity to again engage with President Whipps on our shared vision for the future of our region."
