Palau’s President, Surangel Whipps Jr., has invited U.S. President Donald Trump to experience the effects of climate change through snorkeling. He emphasized the urgent need for action against climate change, noting the severe risks for Palau and future generations. Whipps raised concerns about the U.S. retreat from international commitments and its implications, asserting that countries must prioritize long-term environmental sustainability over short-term gains.
Surangel Whipps Jr., the President of Palau, has invited U.S. President Donald Trump to join him in snorkeling to witness firsthand the impacts of climate change. In a recent interview, he emphasized the dire consequences of climate inaction, stating, “The cost of not doing anything about it is going to be even worse.” He hopes to discuss financial aspects related to climate action with the President.
Palau, an archipelago located east of the Philippines, is acutely affected by rising sea levels. Whipps expressed concern that some of Palau’s atolls may vanish in the coming years, urging Trump to consider the implications for future generations: “Think about his children and his children’s children.” Despite Trump’s dismissal of climate change as a scam, the President’s administration has drastically altered U.S. participation in climate agreements and initiatives.
Whipps criticized the inward focus of many leaders, highlighting that “even the United States has a lot of low-lying areas.” He expressed that the U.S. retreat from international commitments could potentially allow China to take a prominent role in global climate discussions. He remarked, “If Trump is concerned about leadership, this is where he’s going to lose serious ground.”
As President, Whipps has prioritized the maintenance of Palau’s diplomatic ties, including support for Taiwan, despite external pressures from China. He stated, “All we want is the status quo, we want to maintain peace.” Under the United States’ “Compact of Free Association,” Palau receives extensive budgetary support and defense services in exchange for allowing U.S. military access to its territory.
Palau has advocated for a moratorium on deep-sea mining, cautioning against the long-term environmental impacts of such activities, particularly as they relate to climate regulation. Whipps warned that short-term economic benefits could jeopardize future prospects: “You may think you’re saving your people now, but you’re really destroying their future.”
Climate change is increasingly recognized as a slow yet catastrophic threat. Whipps underscored the urgency to transition away from fossil fuels and to mobilize resources to assist those nations most adversely affected. He invited the global community to consider the parallels between the immediate response to COVID-19 and the insidious nature of climate change, observing that “climate change is like the slow death.” He urged leaders to reflect on the legacy they leave for future generations.
The remarks made by President Surangel Whipps Jr. serve as a clarion call for action against climate change, particularly highlighting the escalating threats faced by vulnerable nations like Palau. His invitation to President Trump for snorkelling symbolizes an urgent plea for understanding and recognition of the severe impacts of climate change. As he emphasizes the importance of considering future generations, the need for a united global response to climate issues becomes ever more critical.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
