Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State

On behalf of the Government of the United States, I want to convey my deepest condolences to the family of former President Kuniwo Nakamura and the people of Palau on his passing. President Nakamura was a great statesman who guided Palau’s independence and fostered the emergence of our close and enduring relationship of free association.

Together, our two countries honor his memory and legacy through our commitment to shared values. As President Nakamura told the UN General Assembly, Palau is “large in things that count” including “a commitment to human rights and a democratic government.” In this time of mourning, please accept our profound sympathies and our reassurance that the United States will remember President Nakamura’s friendship and his commitment to the best possible future for the people of Palau.