Kiribati - Foreign policy

Kiribati is concerned about a variety of issues that affect Pacific island-states. In particular, Kiribati has expressed concern regarding French nuclear testing in the area, the prospects of long-term increase in the elevation of the sea level, the economic viability of microstates, and global warming due to greenhouse gases. While opposed to the transportation of nuclear waste through the area, Tito sees nuclear power as having the potential to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. Tito's government seeks foreign investment, especially in the commercial fishing arena as well as tourism.

Other issues that the Tito government is pursuing include a call for international action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and compensation for I-Kiribati families who suffered personal and property losses caused by Japanese soldiers who occupied Banaba during World War II. In 2000, the Japanese government committed to negotiating these claims with the people of Kiribati. In 2002, Kiribati established a diplomatic presence in another country for the first time, opening an embassy in Fiji. Four countries now have resident diplomatic missions in Kiribati: China, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Kiribati and China celebrated 20 years of diplomacy in June 2000. In 1999, along with Tonga and Nauru, the country entered into membership in the United Nations (UN). [Kiribati has no defence treaties and no tense relations with any other state.]