Republic of Palau – January 16, 2024 – H.E. President Hilda C. Heine, First Gentleman Thomas Kijiner, Jr., and delegation attended the inauguration of the 12th Constitutional Government of the Republic of Palau. The ceremony, held at the National Capitol Grounds in Ngerulmud, Melekeok, celebrated the commencement of President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr.’s second term and the installation of Vice President Raynold Oilouch. All newly sworn-in members of the House of Delegates and House of Senate were also included in the celebration, which was witnessed by a handful of Heads of States, foreign dignitaries, development partners, and other special guests and friends of Palau.
Following the inaugural ceremony, President Heine hosted lunch to connect with the Marshallese students pursuing their college education in Palau. There are currently 15 Marshallese students in Palau, mostly recruited from Ebeye, Kwajalein Atoll to study at the Palau Community College.
President Heine and First Gentleman were accompanied by Foreign Minister Hon. Kalani Kaneko and Mrs. Kaneko, Finance Minister Hon. David Paul, and Mrs. Paul, Honorary Consul of RMI to Palau, Honorary Consul of Palau to RMI, Mr. Hirobo Obeketang, Honorary Consul of RMI to Palau, Mr. Ephraim Ngirachitei, Chief of Staff Emma Kabua-Tibon and Assistant Secretary Winder Loeak.
Jeramman to President Whipps and Vice President Oilouch! And best of luck to our Marshallese students in Palau!
