The nation of Palau is comprised of more than 200 coral and volcanic islands, many of which are encircled by a single barrier reef.
The landscape varies from dense jungle to white sand beaches with an abundance of marine life. Palau favors environmentally friendly tourism, which, along with foreign aid, serves as the foundation of its economy.
After 47 years as a part of a US-run United Nations trust territory, Palau gained independence in 1994.
It is reliant on financial assistance from the United States, which is granted under a Compact of Free Association that grants the US responsibility for Palau's defense and the right to keep military bases there. Direct assistance was supposed to end in 2009, but the US approved an additional $250 million package in January 2010.
Although its economic importance is increasing, tourism is understated. Palau has diplomatic ties with Taiwan, where it receives a large number of visitors. The economy is helped by aid from Taiwan. Palau's biggest employer is the government.
Despite Western accoutrements, many Palauans strongly identify with the traditions and rites of this ancient culture, as evidenced by monoliths and other relics.
Outside influences from Spain, Britain, Germany, Japan, and the US have dominated Palau's recent history. During World War II, battles in Palau were among the bloodiest in the area.
Rising sea levels, possibly as a result of climate change, are a potential threat to the low-lying islands.
Surangel Whipps Jr. is the president.
Defeating outgoing Vice President Raynold Oilouch, Surangel Whipps Jr. won the 2020 election. In January 2021, he took over as president, succeeding his brother-in-law Tommy Remengesau.
Mr. Whipps, a businessman who was a senator from 2008 to 2016, had run against President Remengesau in the 2016 election but was defeated.
Like his predecessor, he claims he wants to secure a sustainable future for Palau by striking a balance between economic growth, social development, and the preservation of the nation's cultural and natural resources.
Along with promising to pursue tax reform, he also promised to uphold relations with Taiwan.
There are no reports of official restrictions on internet access, and the law guarantees free press.
Two times, the senate has attempted to outlaw foreign ownership of media. A new telecommunications bill contained a provision to this effect in 2012. Due to international backlash, it was suspended.
The following are some significant occasions in Palau's past:.
roughly 2500 BC. - It is believed that the first settlers in Palau came from what is now eastern Indonesia. Early Palauans engage in fishing and farming while also developing sophisticated social systems.
1783 . - Henry Wilson, an English captain, is shipwrecked on a reef and is the first Westerner to visit.
1885 . Spain declares its right to the islands.
1899 . - Spain sells Palau to Germany, which hires local labor to start using the islands' resources. Plantations of coconuts are grown, and phosphate is mined.
1914 . - Japan occupies Palau after Germany loses the First World War.
1947 . - Under US leadership, Palau is made a United Nations Trust Territory.
1981 . Following the adoption of a constitution by the territory in July, Republic of Palau is established.
1980. Inauguration of President Haruo Remeliik.
1994 . - Palau gains independence as a result of the US-UK Compact of Free Association. Washington provides financial and other assistance to Palau, and it still has the right to maintain military bases there and is in charge of the country's defense. Palau accedes to the UN.
