Palau has asked the US to increase patrolling around its waters after China made several incursions into its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in recent months.
Increased US Troops
Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr. told Reuters in an exclusive interview that he is willing to host a bigger US military presence in the country, alongside existing coastguard and civil action teams.
As the two superpowers compete for influence in the strategic theatre, Whipps Jr. said during a visit to Tokyo on Wednesday, “No matter what, we’re going to be in the centre of whatever’s happening, so it’s important that we’re protected.” “To get peace, you have to project strength.”
Neither Washington nor Beijing has commented on the matter.
China’s Incursions
As recently as last month, Palau identified Chinese vessels in its waters. Whipps Jr. said the Chinese ship appeared to be surveying an area near fibre optic cables vital to the country’s communications.
He also stated that he would use the regional Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders meeting in November as an opportunity to discuss China’s growing incursions into its maritime territory.
Previously, the PIF said it would take a united position on interacting with major powers. To this end, it rejected an attempt by China last year, to sign a security and trade deal with 10 of its 18 members.
US-China Regional Influence
Palau, like other Pacific Island countries, such as Micronesia and the Marshall Islands, has decades-old agreements with the US, which hold the latter is responsible for the defence and economic assistance to Pacific countries.
Meanwhile, China has also been seeking to expand its regional security presence. Last year, it concluded a controversial security agreement with the Solomon Islands, which triggered alarm in the US, Australia, and New Zealand. The deal was scrutinised for allowing China to set up a military base on the island nation, a claim Honiara dismissed.
Following this, the US signed a defence cooperation agreement with Papua New Guinea in May.