![The small Pacific island nation of Palau, with a population of fewer than 20,000, has become a focal point in the escalating geopolitical rivalry between the United States, China, and Taiwan, as its strategic location and diplomatic alignment with Taipei draw intensified attention from major powers.
Palau's Enduring Ties with the US and Taiwan
Nestled in the clear waters of the Pacific, Palau gained independence in 1994, having previously been administered by the United States. This historical connection is cemented by the “Compact of Free Association” (COFA), an agreement that grants the United States exclusive military access to Palau in exchange for substantial financial and developmental assistance from Washington.
Beyond its ties with the US, Palau maintains robust diplomatic relations with Taiwan, established shortly after its independence. This relationship is deeply rooted, with Taiwan providing practical and tangible support to the island nation. Taiwanese agricultural experts work alongside local farmers, medical teams serve in small clinics, and local entrepreneurs receive funding. Additionally, Taiwanese scholarships enable Palauan students to pursue education in Taiwan. Jessie Li, Taiwan's Ambassador to Palau, has affirmed that local leaders consistently reassure her of the "rock solid, till-death-do-us-part" nature of their bilateral relationship.
Palau's geographical position, situated on the "Second Island Chain" in the Pacific, makes it a critical strategic asset. This chain is viewed by the United States as a key forward outpost for containing China's military expansion and responding to any potential aggression in the Western Pacific, particularly concerning Taiwan.
China's Engagement and Allegations of Economic Pressure
Beijing views Taiwan as an integral part of China under its "One China" principle and has consistently sought to isolate Taiwan diplomatically. For years, China has engaged in efforts to persuade Taiwan's remaining diplomatic allies to switch recognition to Beijing. Palau, as one of these allies, has found itself at the center of these diplomatic maneuvers.
Between 2015 and 2017, Chinese tourists constituted approximately half of all visitors to Palau, bringing a significant boom to the local economy. However, in 2017, Beijing reportedly issued directives to travel agencies, instructing them to cease selling tour packages to Palau. This move led to a drastic reduction in Chinese tourist arrivals, severely impacting what had become Palau's primary source of tourism revenue.
Palauan officials interpret this action as a deliberate political tool. They contend that China leverages its vast outbound tourism market to exert pressure on Taiwan's diplomatic partners, aiming to compel them to shift allegiance to Beijing. Surangel Whipps Jr., who assumed the presidency of Palau in 2021, publicly stated that China had offered "1 million" tourists in exchange for Palau changing its diplomatic recognition, an offer he claims to have rejected. President Whipps Jr. has been vocal in his criticism, asserting that China should not dictate Palau's foreign policy. "If China weaponizes tourism, then it's an unstable market we shouldn't rely on," Whipps Jr. told the BBC. "If China wants to have a relationship with our country, it's fine. But they can't tell us we can't have a relationship with Taiwan."
In 2024, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a safety alert, advising Chinese citizens to "exercise caution" when traveling to Palau and urging the island nation to "make the right decision" in line with its own interests. Chinese state media, including the People's Daily, later published an editorial suggesting the alert was issued due to "increased public security cases" in Palau, aiming to protect its overseas citizens. However, Palauan officials, including President Whipps Jr., perceived this as a continuation of Beijing's pressure tactics.
Beijing has consistently denied using tourism as a political weapon. While the Chinese Foreign Ministry has not provided a specific response to the 2017 alleged travel ban, it has generally dismissed accusations of economic coercion. Bai Li (transliteration), a Taiwanese hotel owner in Koror, offered a different perspective, telling the BBC, "He [President Whipps Jr.] is very hawkish on China. I don't think it's correct to say China 'weaponizes' tourism – they just use it as a bargaining chip, like people play chess, every country does that." This highlights the differing interpretations of China's actions, with some viewing them as standard diplomatic leverage rather than outright weaponization.
The US Strengthens its Military Footprint
In response to China's growing military presence and influence in the Indo-Pacific, the United States has significantly ramped up its military infrastructure development in Palau. Under the COFA, Washington is enhancing its military footprint across the archipelago, viewing Palau as an indispensable component of its regional defense strategy.
Key initiatives include the upgrading of airport runways to accommodate larger military aircraft. Furthermore, the US is constructing a Tactical Multi-Mission Over-the-Horizon Radar (Tacmor) system in Angaur, Palau's southernmost state. This advanced radar system is designed to monitor military activities across vast stretches of the Pacific, providing crucial intelligence for regional security. Plans are also underway to expand Malakal Port, Palau's main port, to enable it to accommodate larger naval vessels, thereby enhancing the US Navy's operational capabilities in the region.
These developments underscore the US commitment to maintaining its strategic advantage in the Western Pacific and its determination to deter potential aggression, particularly concerning Taiwan. The increased military presence in Palau is a clear signal of Washington's resolve to counter China's expanding influence and ensure stability in a strategically vital area.
Chinese Business Interests and US Security Concerns
Amidst the heightened geopolitical competition, the presence of Chinese business enterprises in Palau has raised concerns, particularly for the United States. Documents reviewed by the BBC indicate that several Chinese companies have leased land and developed properties in strategically sensitive locations across Palau. These sites include undeveloped land and hotels overlooking key infrastructure such as the main port and the international airport.
A notable example emerged in Angaur, where the US is currently constructing the Tacmor radar receiving station, a project announced in 2017. However, in 2019, Chinese enterprises were found to have leased land in the vicinity of this sensitive US military installation. These land transactions have sparked worries among US officials and analysts, who fear that such acquisitions could exploit potential loopholes in land ownership regulations and pose a risk to US military deployments and intelligence gathering. The proximity of Chinese-leased properties to critical American military assets raises questions about potential surveillance or interference, adding another layer of complexity to the geopolitical landscape of Palau.
The specific details regarding which Chinese companies are involved, the exact terms of their leases, and the full extent of the properties acquired remain largely undisclosed. Similarly, the precise nature of the "loopholes" in land transactions that purportedly allow these acquisitions has not been fully elaborated. These ambiguities contribute to the ongoing scrutiny and concern surrounding Chinese business activities in the region.
The Impact on Palau's Economy and Environment
The sudden shift in Chinese tourism had profound effects on Palau. The economic repercussions of the reported travel ban in 2017 were severe, as the tourism industry, which had become heavily reliant on Chinese visitors, experienced an abrupt downturn. The economic shockwaves from the cessation of tour groups are still palpable across the islands.
Beyond the economic impact, the period of intense Chinese tourism also brought significant environmental challenges to Palau's fragile marine ecosystem. Ann Singeo, director of the local non-governmental organization Ebiil Society, recounted the environmental toll: "After the Chinese tourism explosion, I went there, and the corals were all dead." She emphasized the lack of regulations during the boom, noting, "You would see [hundreds of people] in this small cove, and they were all standing on the corals. That's the price we paid because we didn't have rules to respect the use of these resources." This highlights a critical lesson learned by Palau about the need for sustainable tourism management, regardless of the source of visitors.
The experience with Chinese tourism has led Palau to re-evaluate its tourism strategy, with President Whipps Jr. advocating for a shift towards high-value, low-impact tourism. This approach aims to attract fewer tourists who spend more, thereby minimizing the environmental footprint while maximizing economic benefits. This strategic pivot reflects Palau's determination to protect its pristine natural environment, which is not only a national treasure but also a cornerstone of its long-term economic viability.
Palau's Enduring Geopolitical Crossroads
Palau's journey since its independence in 1994 has been inextricably linked to its strategic location and its relationships with global powers. As a small island nation, it navigates a complex web of alliances and pressures, seeking to preserve its sovereignty and national interests while balancing the competing demands of the United States, China, and Taiwan.
The ongoing strengthening of US military presence in Palau underscores Washington's commitment to its Indo-Pacific strategy and its role as a security guarantor in the region. Simultaneously, China's persistent diplomatic efforts and economic leverage highlight Beijing's unwavering pursuit of its "One China" principle and its ambition to reshape the regional order.
For Palau, maintaining its diplomatic ties with Taiwan remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy, despite the economic incentives and political pressures from Beijing. This stance is rooted in shared values and a long-standing partnership that has provided tangible benefits to the Palauan people. As President Whipps Jr. articulated, while Palau is open to relationships with China, it will not allow external powers to dictate its diplomatic allegiances.
The future of Palau will likely continue to be shaped by these powerful geopolitical currents. Its ability to manage these external pressures, protect its environment, and foster sustainable economic development will be crucial as it seeks to chart its own course in an increasingly complex and contested region.
参考来源
帛琉：中美地缘政治争斗下的太平洋岛国 — BBC Chinese（2025-11-25）：查看原文](https://www.neanews.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/pixabay-7603918.jpg)
The small Pacific island nation of Palau, with a population of fewer than 20,000, has become a focal point in the escalating geopolitical rivalry between the United States, China, and Taiwan, as its strategic location and diplomatic alignment with Taipei draw intensified attention from major powers.
Palau’s Enduring Ties with the US and Taiwan
Nestled in the clear waters of the Pacific, Palau gained independence in 1994, having previously been administered by the United States. This historical connection is cemented by the “Compact of Free Association” (COFA), an agreement that grants the United States exclusive military access to Palau in exchange for substantial financial and developmental assistance from Washington.
Beyond its ties with the US, Palau maintains robust diplomatic relations with Taiwan, established shortly after its independence. This relationship is deeply rooted, with Taiwan providing practical and tangible support to the island nation. Taiwanese agricultural experts work alongside local farmers, medical teams serve in small clinics, and local entrepreneurs receive funding. Additionally, Taiwanese scholarships enable Palauan students to pursue education in Taiwan. Jessie Li, Taiwan’s Ambassador to Palau, has affirmed that local leaders consistently reassure her of the “rock solid, till-death-do-us-part” nature of their bilateral relationship.
Palau’s geographical position, situated on the “Second Island Chain” in the Pacific, makes it a critical strategic asset. This chain is viewed by the United States as a key forward outpost for containing China’s military expansion and responding to any potential aggression in the Western Pacific, particularly concerning Taiwan.
China’s Engagement and Allegations of Economic Pressure
Beijing views Taiwan as an integral part of China under its “One China” principle and has consistently sought to isolate Taiwan diplomatically. For years, China has engaged in efforts to persuade Taiwan’s remaining diplomatic allies to switch recognition to Beijing. Palau, as one of these allies, has found itself at the center of these diplomatic maneuvers.
Between 2015 and 2017, Chinese tourists constituted approximately half of all visitors to Palau, bringing a significant boom to the local economy. However, in 2017, Beijing reportedly issued directives to travel agencies, instructing them to cease selling tour packages to Palau. This move led to a drastic reduction in Chinese tourist arrivals, severely impacting what had become Palau’s primary source of tourism revenue.
Palauan officials interpret this action as a deliberate political tool. They contend that China leverages its vast outbound tourism market to exert pressure on Taiwan’s diplomatic partners, aiming to compel them to shift allegiance to Beijing. Surangel Whipps Jr., who assumed the presidency of Palau in 2021, publicly stated that China had offered “1 million” tourists in exchange for Palau changing its diplomatic recognition, an offer he claims to have rejected. President Whipps Jr. has been vocal in his criticism, asserting that China should not dictate Palau’s foreign policy. “If China weaponizes tourism, then it’s an unstable market we shouldn’t rely on,” Whipps Jr. told the BBC. “If China wants to have a relationship with our country, it’s fine. But they can’t tell us we can’t have a relationship with Taiwan.”
In 2024, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a safety alert, advising Chinese citizens to “exercise caution” when traveling to Palau and urging the island nation to “make the right decision” in line with its own interests. Chinese state media, including the People’s Daily, later published an editorial suggesting the alert was issued due to “increased public security cases” in Palau, aiming to protect its overseas citizens. However, Palauan officials, including President Whipps Jr., perceived this as a continuation of Beijing’s pressure tactics.
Beijing has consistently denied using tourism as a political weapon. While the Chinese Foreign Ministry has not provided a specific response to the 2017 alleged travel ban, it has generally dismissed accusations of economic coercion. Bai Li (transliteration), a Taiwanese hotel owner in Koror, offered a different perspective, telling the BBC, “He [President Whipps Jr.] is very hawkish on China. I don’t think it’s correct to say China ‘weaponizes’ tourism – they just use it as a bargaining chip, like people play chess, every country does that.” This highlights the differing interpretations of China’s actions, with some viewing them as standard diplomatic leverage rather than outright weaponization.
The US Strengthens its Military Footprint
In response to China’s growing military presence and influence in the Indo-Pacific, the United States has significantly ramped up its military infrastructure development in Palau. Under the COFA, Washington is enhancing its military footprint across the archipelago, viewing Palau as an indispensable component of its regional defense strategy.
Key initiatives include the upgrading of airport runways to accommodate larger military aircraft. Furthermore, the US is constructing a Tactical Multi-Mission Over-the-Horizon Radar (Tacmor) system in Angaur, Palau’s southernmost state. This advanced radar system is designed to monitor military activities across vast stretches of the Pacific, providing crucial intelligence for regional security. Plans are also underway to expand Malakal Port, Palau’s main port, to enable it to accommodate larger naval vessels, thereby enhancing the US Navy’s operational capabilities in the region.
These developments underscore the US commitment to maintaining its strategic advantage in the Western Pacific and its determination to deter potential aggression, particularly concerning Taiwan. The increased military presence in Palau is a clear signal of Washington’s resolve to counter China’s expanding influence and ensure stability in a strategically vital area.
Chinese Business Interests and US Security Concerns
Amidst the heightened geopolitical competition, the presence of Chinese business enterprises in Palau has raised concerns, particularly for the United States. Documents reviewed by the BBC indicate that several Chinese companies have leased land and developed properties in strategically sensitive locations across Palau. These sites include undeveloped land and hotels overlooking key infrastructure such as the main port and the international airport.
A notable example emerged in Angaur, where the US is currently constructing the Tacmor radar receiving station, a project announced in 2017. However, in 2019, Chinese enterprises were found to have leased land in the vicinity of this sensitive US military installation. These land transactions have sparked worries among US officials and analysts, who fear that such acquisitions could exploit potential loopholes in land ownership regulations and pose a risk to US military deployments and intelligence gathering. The proximity of Chinese-leased properties to critical American military assets raises questions about potential surveillance or interference, adding another layer of complexity to the geopolitical landscape of Palau.
The specific details regarding which Chinese companies are involved, the exact terms of their leases, and the full extent of the properties acquired remain largely undisclosed. Similarly, the precise nature of the “loopholes” in land transactions that purportedly allow these acquisitions has not been fully elaborated. These ambiguities contribute to the ongoing scrutiny and concern surrounding Chinese business activities in the region.
The Impact on Palau’s Economy and Environment
The sudden shift in Chinese tourism had profound effects on Palau. The economic repercussions of the reported travel ban in 2017 were severe, as the tourism industry, which had become heavily reliant on Chinese visitors, experienced an abrupt downturn. The economic shockwaves from the cessation of tour groups are still palpable across the islands.
Beyond the economic impact, the period of intense Chinese tourism also brought significant environmental challenges to Palau’s fragile marine ecosystem. Ann Singeo, director of the local non-governmental organization Ebiil Society, recounted the environmental toll: “After the Chinese tourism explosion, I went there, and the corals were all dead.” She emphasized the lack of regulations during the boom, noting, “You would see [hundreds of people] in this small cove, and they were all standing on the corals. That’s the price we paid because we didn’t have rules to respect the use of these resources.” This highlights a critical lesson learned by Palau about the need for sustainable tourism management, regardless of the source of visitors.
The experience with Chinese tourism has led Palau to re-evaluate its tourism strategy, with President Whipps Jr. advocating for a shift towards high-value, low-impact tourism. This approach aims to attract fewer tourists who spend more, thereby minimizing the environmental footprint while maximizing economic benefits. This strategic pivot reflects Palau’s determination to protect its pristine natural environment, which is not only a national treasure but also a cornerstone of its long-term economic viability.
Palau’s Enduring Geopolitical Crossroads
Palau’s journey since its independence in 1994 has been inextricably linked to its strategic location and its relationships with global powers. As a small island nation, it navigates a complex web of alliances and pressures, seeking to preserve its sovereignty and national interests while balancing the competing demands of the United States, China, and Taiwan.
The ongoing strengthening of US military presence in Palau underscores Washington’s commitment to its Indo-Pacific strategy and its role as a security guarantor in the region. Simultaneously, China’s persistent diplomatic efforts and economic leverage highlight Beijing’s unwavering pursuit of its “One China” principle and its ambition to reshape the regional order.
For Palau, maintaining its diplomatic ties with Taiwan remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy, despite the economic incentives and political pressures from Beijing. This stance is rooted in shared values and a long-standing partnership that has provided tangible benefits to the Palauan people. As President Whipps Jr. articulated, while Palau is open to relationships with China, it will not allow external powers to dictate its diplomatic allegiances.
The future of Palau will likely continue to be shaped by these powerful geopolitical currents. Its ability to manage these external pressures, protect its environment, and foster sustainable economic development will be crucial as it seeks to chart its own course in an increasingly complex and contested region.
参考来源
- 帛琉：中美地缘政治争斗下的太平洋岛国 — BBC Chinese（2025-11-25）：查看原文