Palau gained its independence October 1, 1994 with the entry into force of the Compact of Free Association with the United States. Palau was the last component of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands to gain its independence. Under the Compact, the U.S. remains responsible for Palau's defense for 50 years. The Compact of Free Association is subject to a bilateral review to be completed by the 15th anniversary of its adoption.

Palau is a sovereign nation and conducts its own foreign relations. Since independence, Palau has established diplomatic relations with a number of nations, including many of its Pacific neighbors, and is one of two dozen or so nations that have diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Palau was admitted to the United Nations on December 15, 1994, and has since joined a number of other international organizations. Palau is a dependable supporter of U.S. positions in the UN.

Principal U.S. Officials
Chargé d'Affaires--Mark Bezner

The mailing address for the U.S. Embassy is P.O. Box 6028, Republic of Palau 96940. Telephone: 680-488-2920/2990. Fax: 680-488-2911. Email: USembassyKoror@palaunet.com.