Palau has signed a memorandum of understanding with the President Trump administration to accept up to 75 third-country nationals from the United States in exchange for $7.5 million in foreign aid. The small Pacific island nation said the agreement is aimed at addressing local labour shortages while supporting U.S. immigration enforcement efforts.
According to a statement from the office of President Surangel Whipps Jr., the migrants, who have not been charged with crimes, would be allowed “to live and work in Palau, helping address local labor shortages in needed occupations.” Whipps added that each individual would be approved on a case-by-case basis following screening by a national working group.
The U.S. Embassy in Koror confirmed the agreement, saying, “The United States deeply appreciates Palau’s cooperation in enforcing U.S. immigration laws.” The deal was signed by U.S. Ambassador Joel Ehrendreich and Palau’s Minister of State Gustav Aitaro and includes additional funding for health, disaster preparedness, financial stability and law enforcement.