21 Jan 2017

Palau's new government to invest in people and the environment

5:48 am on 21 January 2017

Hundreds of well-wishers and supporters gathered at the Capitol Building in Melekeok State in Palau on Thursday to witness the inauguration and installation ceremony of the 10th constitutional government.

Palau's president delivers his inauguration message at the Capitol Building in Melekeok State on Thursday 19 January 2017

Palau's president delivers his inauguration message at the Capitol Building in Melekeok State on Thursday 19 January 2017 Photo: Office of the President of Palau - Facebook

According to the website, Pacific Note, the country's newly sworn-in president Tommy Remengesau said in his inauguration message that in his second term he would focus on developing what he described as the country's greatest assets, its people and the environment.

Mr Remengesau announced that in early days of his new government he aimed to introduce legislation to increase the minimum wage, put a cap on campaign spending, promote high value, high end tourism and increase social security benefits for the people.

He said Palau must ensure its economic development is sustainable in order for it to be able to expand investment opportunities while at the same time protecting the environment for future generations.

Tommy Remengesau also said he would continue to fight climate change and maintain strong alliances with partner nations across the globe.