SBS News

Home to around 18,000 people, the nation of Palau is comprised of hundreds of volcanic islands, most of which are uninhabited, jutting out of the surrounding ocean. The archipelago is covered in lush vegetation and surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs. But this pristine island nation has found itself at the forefront of the region’s most pressing issues. Amid growing rivalry with China, the US has expanded its military footprint across Palau in exchange for security and economic support. At the same time, Palau is at risk from rising sea levels, and despite being one of the world’s smallest contributors to global emissions, its low-lying coastal communities and villages have the most to lose. Tys Occhiuzzi travelled to Palau as it prepares to host the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting. SBS News is Australia's trusted news source for the latest news from Australia and across the world. Subscribe to the SBS News YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SBSNews Follow SBS News on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sbsnews_au Follow SBS News on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sbsnews_au Follow SBS News on X: https://www.twitter.com/SBSNews Follow SBS News on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sbsnews Apple News: https://trib.al/MTx0gUe For the latest news, visit www.sbs.com.au/news Network Terms & Conditions: https://sbs.com.au/terms Privacy Policy: https://sbs.com.au/privacy Feedback or complaints: https://sbs.com.au/complaints