Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. invites U.S. President Donald Trump to snorkel to grasp the impacts of climate change. He emphasizes the urgent consequences of inaction, highlighting the vulnerability of Palau and the need for collective action to safeguard future generations from climate threats. He also critiques U.S. retreat from climate leadership and the implications of this on global dynamics.
The President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr., has extended an invitation to U.S. President Donald Trump to join him for snorkeling, as a means to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of climate change. Whipps emphasized the urgency of acknowledging the severe consequences of climate change, stating, “I think it’s good if we go snorkeling and look at things.” He highlighted that failing to address climate issues could lead to even worse outcomes for the world.
Palau, an archipelago consisting of approximately 340 islands, is particularly susceptible to rising sea levels. Whipps warned that some of Palau’s atolls may disappear in the near future, underscoring that this threat impacts everyone. He urged Trump to consider the long-term implications for future generations, emphasizing the need for a collective effort against climate change.
The leader of Palau cautioned that Trump’s dismissal of climate change as a scam and withdrawal from the Paris Agreement could have dire consequences. He noted that many nations, including the United States, have regions that are vulnerable to rising waters. “Everybody seems to be looking inwardly at their own pocketbooks,” Whipps remarked.
Whipps also expressed concern regarding the impact of reduced U.S. international aid, which has notably affected ocean monitoring programs in Palau. He indicated that U.S. retreat from climate leadership could potentially benefit China, stating, “If Trump is concerned about leadership, this is where he’s going to lose serious ground. China is actually doing more for climate change these days than probably the U.S.”
Palau remains one of the few countries with diplomatic ties to Taiwan, despite pressure from China. The island nation has maintained a policy of neutrality aimed at preserving peace in the region. Whipps affirmed that Palau’s key objective is to sustain the status quo while navigating geopolitical tensions.
In light of the growing threat of climate change, Palau is advocating for a moratorium on deep-sea mining, urging regional consensus ahead of discussions on mining regulations in international waters. Whipps pointed out that scientific data on the impacts of such mining remains insufficient, warning that it could potentially harm marine ecosystems vital to climate regulation. He cautioned against short-term financial gains from mining, arguing, “You may think you’re saving your people now, but you’re really destroying their future.”
Whipps emphasized the urgent need for a transition away from fossil fuels and for increased financial assistance to nations grappling with the consequences of climate change. He articulated this sentiment poignantly, stating, “When it was Covid everybody just mobilised because we’re going to die, now. Climate change is like the slow death.” He urged that leaders, including Trump, reflect on their legacy and consider the impact of their actions on future generations.
In conclusion, Surangel Whipps Jr., the President of Palau, implores U.S. President Trump to appreciate the realities of climate change through direct engagement. Palau’s vulnerability to climate-related threats underscores the broader global implications. Whipps warns against short-term solutions that neglect long-term environmental sustainability. His call for immediate action, both politically and environmentally, stresses the importance of legacy and the well-being of future generations.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
