Overview:
PICRC and Japan’s Toba Aquarium have renewed their cooperation agreement, continuing years of collaboration in marine conservation, research and public education. The partnership also expands researcher and cultural exchanges between Palau and Japan.
KOROR, Palau — The Palau International Coral Reef Center and Toba Aquarium renewed their Friendship and Cooperation Agreement this month, reaffirming nearly a decade of collaboration focused on marine conservation education, research exchanges and public awareness of marine ecosystems.
The renewal ceremony was attended by Ichimi Katsuyuki, governor of Mie Prefecture, members of his delegation and Kenichi Kasahara, Japan’s ambassador to Palau.
PICRC and Toba Aquarium signed a new Memorandum of Friendship and Cooperation on May 8, continuing a partnership that began with the original agreement in 2017. The institutions said the partnership supports efforts to improve public understanding of marine organisms and coral reef ecosystems while strengthening conservation initiatives.
The agreement also promotes exchanges between researchers and staff from both institutions, aimed at enhancing scientific knowledge, educational programs and institutional development.
The renewed partnership is part of the broader friendship between Mie Prefecture and the Palau, which is marking its 30th anniversary this year.
Anniversary events included a cultural exchange and tree-planting ceremony at Palau High School, a sister school of Mie Prefecture Fisheries High School.
During the visit, Governor Ichimi presented Caryn Lkong Koshiba, acting CEO of PICRC, with a Certificate of Commendation recognizing the center’s role in strengthening ties between Mie Prefecture and Palau.
