The president of the Pacific Islands nation of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr., was returned for a second time period after a nationwide election held final week, a closing tally by the Palau Election Commission confirmed Wednesday.
The outcomes confirmed Whipps Jr. received 5,626 votes, defeating his brother-in-law Tommy Remengesau, who obtained 4,103 votes.
Palau, which is essential to the U.S. navy amid tensions with China and is amongst a dozen diplomatic allies of Taiwan, held a nationwide election for president and its Senate on Nov. 5.
“Looking forward, I do know the challenges we face are vital, however so are the alternatives,” Whipps mentioned in a press release claiming victory on Wednesday.
He added that his authorities would search to diversify Palau’s economic system whereas defending its ocean and forests.
Palau this yr renewed a Compact of Free Association with Washington, in a deal that can see it obtain $890 million in financial help over 20 years in return for permitting continued U.S. navy entry to its maritime zone, airspace and land.
Palau’s inhabitants of 18,000 is unfold throughout an archipelago that sits between the Philippines and the U.S. navy base on Guam.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese congratulated Whipps Jr. in a message on social media platform X on Wednesday.
“We look ahead to persevering with to work as associates and companions to make sure a peaceable, steady and affluent Pacific,” Albanese wrote.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te had earlier congratulated Whipps Jr. in a message on social media, saying there could be larger collaboration in tourism and infrastructure.