Fiji, Oct. 1 -- Palau President and Forum Chair Surangel Whipps Jr says Pacific countries must balance ocean conservation with economic development as they confront rising seas, extreme weather and growing pressure on marine resources.

Whipps, who has led Palau since 2021 and was re-elected in 2024, told Earth.Org that Pacific nations needed to invest both in protecting their marine environment and developing industries that allow communities to benefit from ocean resources.

"How do we, as Pacific Island countries, continue to be good stewards?.

"That requires investment in protection, but also requires investment in production," Whipps said.

Palau has established itself as a strong advocate for marine conservation. It became the firs...