Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr. invited U.S. President Trump to snorkel to witness the impacts of climate change directly. He notes the sweeping risks to Palau’s future from rising sea levels and criticizes U.S. withdrawal from climate partnerships. Whipps warns about prioritizing short-term economic solutions like deep-sea mining, urging broader consideration for posterity in climate actions.
Surangel Whipps Jr., the President of Palau, a climate-vulnerable archipelago, has extended an invitation to U.S. President Donald Trump to join him in snorkeling. His intent is to showcase the detrimental effects of climate change firsthand. Whipps emphasized the importance of acknowledging the true costs of inaction regarding climate issues, stating, “The cost of not doing anything about it… is going to be even worse.” He highlights the impending threats to Palau’s atolls due to rising sea levels and urges Trump to consider future generations’ well-being.
Despite being a staunch supporter of the United States, Whipps expressed concern over the reduction of international aid under Trump’s administration, which has affected essential ocean monitoring programs in Palau. He warned that the U.S. withdrawal from global leadership could lead to China gaining influence, asserting, “If Trump is concerned about leadership, this is where he’s going to lose serious ground.” He indicated that China is currently taking more significant actions toward climate change than the U.S.
Whipps, who was reelected last year, underscored the independence of Palau, which maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan despite challenges from China. He reiterated the importance of maintaining the status quo and preserving peace amid external pressures. Under a longstanding agreement, the United States provides budgetary support and defense responsibilities in exchange for military access to Palauan territory.
Palau is advocating for a moratorium on deep-sea mining, anticipating possible environmental impacts that remain inadequately understood. Whipps criticized the short-term thinking of nations that view deep-sea mining as an economic solution amidst climate uncertainties. He warned, “You may think you’re saving your people now, but you’re really destroying their future,” stressing the urgent need for action against climate change.
Whipps has declared the challenges of climate change as a “slow death” compared to the immediate mobilization seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, urging swift transitions away from fossil fuels. He implored leaders to consider future generations, noting Trump’s age and responsibility to think about his progeny, which can provide necessary perspective on climate action.
In summary, President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Palau has called for greater awareness and action on climate change by inviting President Trump to snorkel with him. He emphasizes the urgent need for climate action, warns against the potential loss of Palau’s land due to rising sea levels, and critiques U.S. retreat from international climate leadership. Whipps advocates for environmental preservation over short-term economic interests and stresses the moral obligation to consider future generations.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
