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U.S. Granted Authority to Enforce Maritime Laws in Palau Amid Geopolitical Tensions with China

by Joshua Brown
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Geopolitical Tensions

The United States has formalized a new pact with Palau that confers upon American naval vessels the power to independently implement maritime regulations within Palau’s exclusive economic zone, according to an announcement by the U.S. Coast Guard.

This development occurs at a time when both the United States and China are keen to broaden their geopolitical sway in the Pacific region. The agreement follows urgent requests from the Palauan President for assistance from Washington to counteract Beijing’s unwarranted activities within Palau’s territorial waters.

Under the terms of the accord, finalized one week prior, ships of the U.S. Coast Guard are permitted to enforce maritime laws within Palau’s exclusive economic zone without requiring the presence of a Palauan officer on board, as per the statement from the Coast Guard.

President of Palau, Surangel S. Whipps Jr., expressed that the agreement serves to bolster monitoring of Palau’s exclusive economic zone, combat illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing, and impede unauthorized vessels from undertaking suspicious activities in their maritime zone. “Such partnerships contribute to our joint aspirations for regional peace and prosperity,” he added.

While the official statement remained silent on China’s role, President Whipps, in a press event in Tokyo earlier, highlighted that three Chinese vessels had illegally entered Palau’s waters since he assumed office in 2021. He emphasized the necessity for continued U.S. support to fortify deterrence against China’s aggressive maritime strategies.

The geopolitics of the Asia-Pacific area has been increasingly strained as China continues to assert expansive maritime claims, drawing counteractions from the United States and its allies. Coinciding with the Palau agreement last week, Philippine boats, under aerial observation by a U.S. Navy aircraft, broke through a Chinese coast guard blockade in the contested South China Sea to deliver provisions to Filipino forces safeguarding a disputed shoal.

The incident adds to a long history of territorial conflicts involving China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei in the volatile maritime region.

In a related development, President Whipps accused China of conducting survey activities in Palau’s waters in June, speculating that Beijing might be penalizing Palau for its diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Palau is one of the few nations that acknowledge Taiwan and maintain diplomatic connections with the island, which declared independence from mainland China in 1949.

In a parallel scenario, the Solomon Islands switched its diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China in 2019 and subsequently inked a confidential security deal with Beijing, prompting apprehensions about China gaining a military advantage in the South Pacific. In response, the United States inaugurated an embassy in the Solomon Islands.

The arrangement with Palau resembles an agreement made with the Federated States of Micronesia at the end of 2022, subsequent to which the U.S. Coast Guard has carried out inspections for that Pacific country. Additionally, a bilateral defense agreement was signed between the U.S. and Papua New Guinea in May, which is expected to facilitate the U.S. Coast Guard in conducting inspections in conjunction with local authorities in Papua New Guinea’s exclusive economic zone later this year.

The U.S. Coast Guard emphasized that such agreements underscore the United States’ sustained commitment to safeguarding mutual resources and sustaining maritime safety and security. “These collaborative efforts with Pacific island nations, including the partnership with Palau, enhance our collective capacity to safeguard resources and uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific that adheres to the rule of law,” stated the Coast Guard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Geopolitical Tensions

What is the significance of the U.S.-Palau maritime agreement?

The U.S.-Palau maritime agreement grants American ships the authority to enforce maritime regulations in Palau’s exclusive economic zone, aiming to counter China’s influence and protect regional stability.

How does this agreement reflect geopolitical tensions?

Amidst intensifying geopolitical competition, both the U.S. and China seek to expand their Pacific influence. The agreement is a response to China’s assertive maritime activities and reflects the broader struggle for dominance in the region.

What are the key objectives of the U.S. Coast Guard in Palau’s waters?

The U.S. Coast Guard’s objectives encompass enforcing maritime regulations, combatting illegal fishing, and deterring unauthorized vessels from engaging in questionable maneuvers within Palau’s waters.

Why did Palau seek U.S. assistance?

Palau’s President expressed concerns about China’s unwelcome activities in their coastal waters, including uninvited entries by Chinese boats. Palau sought U.S. support to enhance deterrence and safeguard their sovereignty.

How does the agreement impact regional stability?

The agreement bolsters the ability to monitor and regulate maritime activities, contributing to peace and prosperity in the Pacific. It aligns with the U.S.’s commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific and ensuring adherence to the rule of law.

Are there other instances of similar agreements?

Yes, the U.S. has signed similar agreements with other Pacific nations, such as the Federated States of Micronesia and Papua New Guinea. These agreements underline the U.S.’s dedication to protecting shared resources and maritime security in the region.

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