Koror, Palau – The Government of Palau and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office earlier this month convened the 2024 Annual Programme Review (APR) in Koror.

The APR – co-chaired by Minister of State, Honorable Gustav Aitaro, and Munkhtuya Altangerel, Resident Representative of the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji – gathered senior government officials, private sector representatives, community-based organizations, and persons with disabilities to review ongoing projects and align future priorities for the North Pacific nation.

In his opening remarks, Minister Aitaro acknowledged the productive collaboration between the Government of Palau and UNDP, praising the organization’s instrumental role in supporting Palau’s development efforts; from establishing Palau’s Government Statistics Office to addressing climate change through capacity-building programs. Minister Aitaro also emphasized the need for continued strategic dialogue to meet national priorities and challenges.

Altangerel echoed this sentiment, acknowledging Palau’s commitment to collaboration with UNDP, “Our strategic partnership is key to accelerating the 2030 Agenda,” she remarked, noting the representation of high-level officials, including Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment and Minister of Human Resources, Tourism and Culture at the APR. She further elaborated on recent structural changes within UNDP that increase in-country support, including the establishment of offices in Micronesia, to provide more localized assistance.

During the APR, Kevin Petrini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for the North Pacific, presented programme results for 2024 and said, "Our focus for 2024 has been clear – structural transformation, innovation, digitalization, and financing are key drivers for advancing inclusive governance, resilience, energy, transparency, and gender equality."

Beyond 2024, he proposed plans that aim to support a range of initiatives, including further enhancing border security, enhancing access to inclusive justice, strengthening legislative capacities, addressing HIV and Tuberculosis and implementing the Global Environment Facility-funded Palau National Maritime Sanctuary project.

Discussions focused on key areas of collaboration, including the importance of having a UNDP presence in Palau for more immediate communication and response to government needs. Workforce development emerged as a major priority, with discussions on vocational training, labor regulations, and addressing high turnover rates.

The meeting also underscored the significance of empowering local entrepreneurs, particularly indigenous communities, women, and youth, to drive Palau’s economic growth. Participants emphasized the need for inclusivity, particularly for persons with disabilities, in the development process. Addressing gender-based violence and strengthening institutional responses to human trafficking and other social challenges were also highlighted as critical areas for future collaboration.

UNDP will also continue to support Palau's efforts in strengthening its workforce and promoting entrepreneurship, particularly among indigenous and local businesses. Both parties are committed to leveraging these initiatives to address Palau’s evolving development challenges and opportunities, ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for all citizens.

The APR concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong partnership between Palau and UNDP, with both parties looking forward to continued collaboration to achieve sustainable development in the years ahead.

For more information please contact:

Leandra Flor | Communications Specialist | leandra.flor@undp.org