U.S., Palau Sign Agreement to Allow U.S. Vessels to Enforce Palauan Maritime Laws
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Washington, D.C., August 29, 2023 – The United States and Palau have signed an agreement that will allow U.S. vessels to enforce Palauan maritime laws in the country’s economic exclusive zone (EEZ).
The agreement, which was signed by U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Karl L. Schultz and Palau President Surangel S. Whipps Jr., allows U.S. vessels to board, search, and seize Palauan-flagged vessels that are suspected of violating Palauan maritime laws.
“This agreement is a significant step forward in our partnership with Palau,” Schultz said in a statement. “It will help us to deter illegal maritime activity in Palau’s EEZ and to ensure the safety and security of Palau’s maritime resources.”
Whipps said the agreement will help to “strengthen Palau’s maritime enforcement capabilities and to protect our economic interests.”
The agreement comes as China has been increasing its activities in the Pacific region. In recent years, China has been sending more ships to the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
Whipps has been a vocal critic of China’s activities in the region. He has called on the United States to help Palau to deter China from encroaching on its territory.
Commentary
The agreement between the United States and Palau is a sign of the growing cooperation between the two countries in the Pacific region. The agreement is also a response to China’s increasing activities in the region.
The agreement will give the United States a greater presence in Palau’s EEZ. This could help to deter illegal maritime activity in the region and to protect Palau’s maritime resources.
The agreement is also a sign of Palau’s willingness to rely on the United States for its security. Palau is a small island nation with limited resources. The agreement will help Palau to protect itself from potential threats from China.
