Report warns bureaucratic hurdles in both Palau and Washington could weaken strategic and economic goals By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau – (May 7, 2026) A new U.S. government watchdog report is raising concerns that delays and bureaucratic bottlenecks tied to Compact of Free Association funding could undermine Palau’s fragile economic recovery, critical public services and […]
Tag: China influence Pacific
Posted inPacific News
Tonga’s debt to China hinders rebuild four years on from eruption
NUKU’ALOFA, 06 APRIL 2026 (AFP) — More than four years on from one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in history, Tonga is struggling to improve its infrastructure as it pays off a massive Chinese loan. When Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai erupted on 15 January 2022, the blast could be heard as far away as Alaska […]
Posted inTop Stories
Palau Senate Pushes Back Against U.S. Accusations of Corruption Against Baules
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang NGERULMUD, Palau — “We should not allow any nation to carelessly make unsubstantiated accusations against a Palauan leader,” Sen. Eldebechel said during a recent Senate session, as lawmakers rallied to defend Senate President Hokkons Baules against corruption allegations raised by the U.S. State Department. Palauan senators last week sharply criticized the […]