In delivering his 2nd State of the Republic Address on April 24, link 2014, President Tommy Remengesau Junior highlighted the national government’s progress and challenges in the past year, and in moving forward.
In opening his address, the President expressed the Republic was “in the doldrums” last year being faced by a number of challenges.
Working together, he added, “We addressed these challenges immediately.” He revealed the government has since paid off overdue balances owed to the Pension Plan, Social Security Fund and the Health Care Fund.
The government has also hired new doctors and nurses for the hospital, and additional police officers to tackle escalating violent crimes and drugs in the Republic.
In terms of tourism and economic growth, Palau’s tourism numbers has decreased in recent years.
The President explains this is a reflection of Palau’s focus and pursue of high-end ecotourism as we shift away from mass-tourism.
Looking forward however the President disclosed that Palau is expected to see favorable medium-term prospects with an average growth of 3.2 percent in our GDP per year as it’s projected for fiscal year 2014-2017.
He explains, this is a result of accelerating construction activity, new hotels, and the jolt to the private sector that is expected from hosting this year’s Pacific Islands Forum.
The President went on to discuss “setting the course” for Palau through the Management Action Plan or MAP, which was adopted in the beginning of this administration.
The President’s SORA was conducted in the Senate Chamber in the Capitol building in Melekeok.
Dozens of government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and the public attended the occasion.
