What was the primary objective of the expanded bilateral law enforcement agreement signed between the United States and the Republic of Palau on August 23, 2023?

As part of a continued commitment to enhancing maritime governance and promoting regional sovereignty, representatives of the United States and the Republic of Palau signed an expanded bilateral law enforcement agreement on Aug. 23, 2023, on the sidelines of the Joint Heads of Pacific Security conference in Palau. The United States and the Republic of Palau share common interests and values supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific. This agreement will help them meet their security commitments in Palau by increasing maritime domain awareness and preventing IUU Fishing within Palau's EEZ. This significant regional milestone agreement enables the U.S. Coast Guard to enforce regulations at sea in Palau's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on behalf of Palau without a Palauan officer present. This agreement helps Palau monitor its exclusive economic zone, protect against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing, and deter uninvited vessels from conducting questionable maneuvers within its waters. About USA Capital: Washington, D.C.                           Currency: U.S. dollar                        President: Joe Biden