Kiribati Votes: A High-Stakes Election Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Kiribati's national election, viewed as a referendum on living costs and ties with China, saw polls open for the first round on Wednesday. Results are expected Thursday, with a second round on August 19. The election highlights the strategic importance of Kiribati due to its proximity to Hawaii and vast ocean expanse.

Kiribati's national election, regarded as a pivotal moment for the island nation, opened for the first round of voting on Wednesday. The election is widely seen as a referendum on skyrocketing living costs and the government's growing relationship with China.

A second round of voting is slated for August 19, for seats not decided by Wednesday's vote. Results from the initial round are expected on Thursday.

With a population of 120,000, Kiribati lacks the resource wealth of other Pacific islands but holds strategic importance due to its proximity to Hawaii. The nation is a focal point in a geopolitical contest between Western powers and Beijing.

(With inputs from agencies.)