Koror, Palau - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office in Fiji, with support from the Government of Japan, has delivered safety equipment to Palau International Airport to strengthen Palau’s border security.

This achievement is part of UNDP’s Integrated Border Management Project, launched in November 2021. The project aims to reinforce the capacities, capabilities, and systems of border agencies in Fiji, Palau, and Vanuatu to facilitate efficient border movement of travelers and cargo, while enhancing security through improved data management, inter-agency cooperation and cross-regional collaboration.

Given the crucial role of tourism in Palau’s economy, ensuring the safety and security of both its population and incoming passengers is vital for the country’s economic stability.

Before concluding the current phase of the project, UNDP presented the project’s successful outcomes at Palau International Airport. Beginning with the establishment of the Coordinated Border Management (CBM) governance system via an Executive Order in September 2022, border agencies have laid a strong foundation for enhancing border control and security. With UNDP’s support, the CBM body developed a CBM Strategy and Action Plan, which included a recommendation for Palau to join the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL).

During a handover ceremony at the airport, CBM representatives showcased various improvements at the point of entry. The equipment provided, valued at approximately US$500,000, includes digital screens for passenger information, air conditioning systems for a sanitary environment, IT equipment such as ASYCUDA software for customs operations, and security cameras for enhanced surveillance. These upgrades have significantly improved the airport’s ability to manage public health protocols, speed up airport operations, and maintain a safe and comfortable environment for passengers.

Palau has also successfully implemented a digital arrival card system, with support from UNDP and the Japan Digital Agency. Mr. Hiroyuki Kato, Director of the Japan Digital Agency, provided technical guidance to Palau’s Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine services, helping to identify strengths and weaknesses in the existing system and offering solutions. Under his guidance and the CBM’s commitment, Palau has emerged as a leader in digitalization efforts within the Pacific.

Mr. John Tarkong Jr., Director of Palau’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, remarked:

“This project has strengthened our coordination as border agencies to ensure we provide efficient services at our borders. Palau now has a CBM body to discuss border security issues, has joined INTERPOL to enhance risk control, and has introduced a digital arrival card system. We would like to extend our gratitude to the Government of Japan, UNDP, and IOM for their technical expertise. Without their support, implementing these advancements would have been highly challenging. We look forward to continued cooperation to further accelerate digitalization and bolster our border security.”

Japanese Ambassador to the Republic of Palau, H.E. Orikasa Hiroyuki, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to ensuring the safe passage of goods and travelers:  

“To protect the people of Palau from imminent security threats such as drug, human trafficking and transnational crimes, we must collaborate to strengthen the coordination of the country’s border agencies. This project aligns with Japan’s objective of promoting free and robust economic activity throughout the region, and we are eager to continue our support not just through further equipment procurement but through even closer communications with related agencies and increased digitization of services.”

UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative, Ms. Munkhtuya Altangerel, emphasized the cultural and security significance of the project:

“Palauan’s have a deep respect for their heritage and the uniqueness of this beautiful country. Protecting Palau’s borders is paramount. This project, which began amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, has highlighted the strength of collaboration and the value of a networked approach to border management."

This project is supported by the Government of Japan, with UNDP working alongside key partners, including the International Organization for Migration and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.

For further media enquiries please contact:  

Nick Turner, Communications Specialist | UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | (E) nicholas.turner@undp.org