Republic of Palau National Master Plan 2017

With 71 percent of the Earth’s surface covered in water and 96.5 percent of all Earth’s water held in its oceans, the Republic of Palau holds great value for future generations. One need only look at the at the country’s context to understand how one of the smallest developing nations in the world has such a significant impact.

In terms of geography Palau is an archipelago of roughly 340 islands located in the western Pacific Ocean. With a total area of 488 square kilometers it forms the western chain of the Caroline Islands in Micronesia. It is surrounded by an Exclusive Economic Zone 3.12 million square kilometers in size often described as one of the seven underwater wonders of the world.

Palau is held in high esteem around the globe for its environmental posture, cultural heritage and natural beauty. Lonely Planet, the largest travel guidebook publisher in the world, describes Palau as a world under water, warm island welcome, palm-fringed paradise, and natural wonder. Yet, this scenically magical paradise is only Palau’s foundation.

On 28 October 2015, after unanimous passage in the National Congress, President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. signed into law the Palau National Marine Sanctuary Act, setting in motion a true global gift; the clear and resounding message- Earth first. The 9th largest marine sanctuary in the world, it fully protects about 80 percent of the nation’s maritime territory, a higher percentage than in any other country!

Palau’s growth is deeply tied to its conservation legacy. Tourists from around the world are drawn to these islands in the western Pacific for their unparalleled beauty. By safeguarding marine life through the sanctuary, Palau strengthens its reputation as a sustainable tourism destination, and that brings extensive economic and environmental benefits. The Palau National Marine Sanctuary ensures a vibrant future for the nation’s marine life and for its economy for years to come.

The country is not just on a journey of transformation it is leading the way. Acknowledged globally as a champion of environmental protection and nature conservation, Palau has set its sights on raising the bar once again. A plan for success is now in motion.

Michelangelo once said, “Every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.” Developing Palau’s national master plan is an incredible opportunity for discovery, yet with the added responsibility to promote the protection, restoration and conservation of ecosystems and natural resources, along with its cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Capitalizing on over two decades of analysis by the Palauan government, traditional leaders, NGOs and the private sector, a strict set of principles and controls guide infrastructure design and business investment. It’s about quality, not quantity. The national master plan choreographs this process, optimizing all aspects from concept to operation ensuring a win-win-win scenario. The private sector can invest capital with confidence. The government can foster economic growth with empowerment. Palauan’s can improve quality of life without risk to their way of living. This is a team endeavor, blending the past with the future, where the only limit is one’s imagination.

Palau Economic Development Authority

On 20 March 2017, Emerging Asia Capital Partners was named exclusive financial advisor and national developer by the Republic of Palau. The program is led by Michael Goldsmith, a recognized expert in nation building and smart nation applications with success stories on 5 continents. Operating as the Palau Economic Development Authority, the planning team consists of highly experienced design, business, finance and technical professionals responsible for the plan’s creation, implementation, maintenance, and oversight. PEDA serves as Palau’s international voice and single entity centering all collaborative efforts toward economic development and growth, specific to private sector investment.

Already underway, the program fosters early vertical project implementation in telecommunications, transportation and tourism. Over $30 million in foreign investment is currently committed for a countrywide communications platform and international airport. A multipurpose seaport and tourism program will be initiated in the very near future.

Palau has a strong desire to be the premiere ecotourism-retirement destination, technology innovation leader, and international offshore financial center. This presents a number of additional Greenfield opportunities like 5-star resorts and luxury living, along with Brownfield projects in critical sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries, and social services. PEDA satellite offices are being established to reach 3 key investment regions – Asia, United States and Europe.