UN General Assembly
2021

In that regard, previous Compact reconsiderations have been unsuccessful because of inadequate regard for the complex dynamics of the modern world and the compounding vulnerabilities Palau is challenged with. Regardless, I am confident that the new United States Administration will rise to the task and correct the deficiencies in previous deliberations. As the eldest, or big brother, in my family, the safety, security and well-being of my siblings were ultimately my responsibility. We grew up in our community as a collective unit, whereby “I” was always synonymous with “we”. This reassured us that no one would be left out and reinforced the principle that each of us reflected the stability and character of the family and the extended community. That is a fundamental Palauan principle that, I believe, signifies the Pacific way and reflects the United Nations system. This family — the United Nations — has the opportunity to reconcile global issues and, through its collective membership, take the actions necessary to develop and implement innovative crucial solutions. This is our mandate, and we must not fail.