"US Asserts Maritime Authority in Palau Amidst Pacific Power Struggle with China"

The United States has signed an agreement with Palau that allows American ships to enforce maritime regulations in Palau's exclusive economic zone without a Palauan officer present. The move comes as both the US and China vie for influence in the Pacific region. Palau's president had requested US assistance to deter China's "unwanted activities" in its coastal waters. The agreement aims to help Palau monitor its exclusive economic zone, combat illegal fishing, and deter unauthorized vessels. While the statement did not mention China, Palau's president previously accused China of conducting surveying activities in Palau waters. The US has been strengthening its partnerships in the Pacific, including similar agreements with the Federated States of Micronesia and Papua New Guinea.