U.S. Warns Pacific Islands of Risks in Security Ties with China

Concerns rise over Chinese police presence in Kiribati, highlighting Beijing's push for influence in the Pacific.

The U.S. has expressed concerns over Kiribati's engagement with Chinese police forces, cautioning Pacific Island nations against security cooperation with China.
Chinese police officers are working in Kiribati on community policing and a crime database program, following Kiribati's request for policing assistance in 2022.
The presence of Chinese police in Kiribati is part of Beijing's broader push to expand security ties in the Pacific Islands, amid intensifying rivalry with the United States.
U.S. lawmakers and officials warn that such security cooperation with China could undermine the sovereignty and security of Pacific Island nations.
China's growing influence in the Pacific, including police deployments in the Solomon Islands and rejected offers in Papua New Guinea, raises regional and international tensions.