Palau accuses China of weaponizing tourism

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Palau has accused Beijing of weaponizing tourism against his nation due to its support for Taiwan and allegations of Chinese involvement in a significant cyberattack. Palau, along with Tuvalu and the Marshall Islands, is one of the few Pacific nations that recognizes Taiwan as an independent democracy, a stance that has drawn ire from China. In a recent interview, Whipps recounted a 2020 encounter where a Chinese ambassador promised to boost tourism to Palau if it changed its position on Taiwan. The pressure from China has intensified as Palau approaches its November elections, where Whipps seeks re-election. Reports from Chinese state media have warned potential tourists about safety concerns in Palau, a country that once relied heavily on Chinese visitors, who made up 70% of its tourism before Beijing imposed restrictions in 2017. In response, Palau has diversified its tourism market, strengthening ties with Taiwan, Japan, and Australia. While the U.S. provides aid and defense support to Palau, analysts argue that Washington has been slow to respond to China's growing influence in the Pacific. Whipps emphasized the importance of educational opportunities for Palauan youth in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand, and called for enhanced security for Palau's marine sanctuaries, which cover 80% of its waters. As the Solomon Islands prepare for elections, concerns about cooling relations with China have emerged, particularly regarding the logging trade. Whipps reiterated his belief in maintaining friendly relations with all nations, asserting that Palau's relationship with Taiwan should remain unquestioned.