The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continues to exert pressure, attempting to coerce the Pacific island nation of Palau to sever ties with Taiwan. Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. once again exposed the despicable behavior of the CCP, accusing it of violating his country’s sovereignty and calling on democratic nations worldwide to resist the threat posed by the CCP.
According to a report by Bloomberg on Wednesday, Whipps stated in an interview that Palau is facing increasing pressure from the CCP, which is trying to force Palau to abandon its support for Taipei, especially during the upcoming national elections.
“This is a challenge that countries believing in freedom, democracy, and the rule of law need to unite against. Otherwise, we may be swallowed up,” Whipps said.
Palau will hold its election next Tuesday, on November 5, coinciding with the U.S. presidential election.
Palau is an island nation located north of Australia, with a population of only about 20,000 people. Washington and Beijing have been vying for influence in this region, which is not only an important shipping route and location of communication cables but also rich in fishing resources and underwater minerals.
Whipps also expressed dissatisfaction with unauthorized CCP ships entering Palau’s exclusive economic zone, warning that the geopolitical power struggle is intensifying, posing a serious threat to countries in the region.
He emphasized that Pacific countries must uphold their sovereignty and territorial integrity to address the challenges of geopolitics.
After Nauru announced the termination of diplomatic relations with Taiwan earlier in 2024 due to CCP enticements, only 12 countries worldwide maintain diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Whipps also expressed concern about the CCP’s restrictions on tourists visiting Palau, as this poses a threat to the country’s tourism-dependent economy.
In July of this year, Whipps stated that CCP pressure on the country had reached a “new high,” with the CCP government issuing travel warnings advising against travel to Palau.
In 2017, the CCP began prohibiting state-owned group tours to Palau, leading to a sharp decline in tourist numbers to the country. This prompted Palau to put more emphasis on exploring new markets.
Whipps has consistently supported strengthening U.S. diplomatic relations with the Pacific region and is considering enhancing security ties with the United States, including the deployment of U.S. missile defense systems.
Furthermore, former President Tommy Remengesau Jr. is currently running against Whipps and seeking re-election. Remengesau also staunchly supported maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan during his tenure.