A state in Oceania, on an archipelago in the group of the Caroline Islands in the eastern part of the Pacific Ocean (the largest being Babeldaob Island - 367 km²). Area - 508 km². Capital - Koror on Koror Island (11.5 thousand). Population - 21 thousand (2004), mainly Belau (Palauan). Official languages - Belau (Palauan) and English. Religion - Catholics and Protestants. Currency - US dollar.
National holiday - October 1 - Independence Day (1994).
The Republic of Palau was under the administration of the USA from 1947 to 1993, and since November 1993, it has been a "freely associated" state with the USA for a period of 50 years. On January 1, 1994, it declared independence (the US trusteeship ended); for historical information - see the Marshall Islands. The constitution has been in effect since January 1, 1981. The head of state and government is the president, elected by the population for a term of 4 years (T. Remengesau). The legislative body is the National Congress, which consists of two chambers: the Senate (14 senators, appointed for 8 years proportionally to the population of the island territories) and the House of Delegates (16 delegates, elected by the population). It has self-governance (defense, finance, and foreign affairs are under the jurisdiction of the USA). Member of the UN (since 1994).
Palau has a large number of coconut palm plantations. The population is engaged in tropical agriculture and fishing. Foreign tourism is also of significant importance.
A government monthly magazine and a newspaper are published in English and local languages on Koror Island. There are 2 television centers (Koror Island) and a broadcasting company.
