US Coast Guard Boards Chinese Vessels Near Kiribati, Prompting US Caution in Pacific

The US Coast Guard, in collaboration with Kiribati police officers, boarded two Chinese fishing vessels in Kiribati's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) as part of routine maritime law enforcement activities. The inspection aimed to ensure compliance with Kiribati's EEZ regulations, as the South Pacific becomes a focal point for the geostrategic rivalry between China and the United States. Kiribati, which switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 2019, has been hosting Chinese police officers as part of a training program, reflecting Beijing's efforts to increase its security presence in the region.