The European Union (EU) recently approved conclusions on its strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, as part of a renewed and long-term commitment. This strategy aims to uphold democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and respect for international law in the region that spans the east coast of Africa to the Pacific island states.
Why the Need for an EU Strategy in the Indo-Pacific?
Geopolitical competition has intensified, leading to increased tensions on trade and supply chains as well as in technological, political and security domains. Human rights are also being challenged, threatening the stability and security of the region and beyond. These developments have a direct impact on the EU’s interests.
The Objective of the Strategy
The EU strategy intends to contribute to regional stability, security, prosperity, and sustainable development at a time of escalating challenges and tensions in the region. The strategy aims to promote rules-based multilateralism, giving centrality to ASEAN (Association of SouthEast Asian Nations), a point also emphasized by India.
Main Features of the EU’s Strategy in the Indo-Pacific
Covid-19 Response
The EU will cooperate to alleviate the economic and human impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, aiming for an inclusive and sustainable socio-economic recovery.
Free and Fair Trade
As part of its engagement efforts, the EU aims to promote a rules-based international order, a level playing field, an open and fair environment for trade and investment, and reciprocity. On trade partnerships, the EU plans to conclude free trade agreements with Australia, Indonesia, and New Zealand, as well as taking more steps towards the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment with China. Deepening economic relations with India is also on its agenda.
Security and Defence
The EU will continue to develop partnerships in the areas of security and defence, addressing maritime security, cyber threats, disinformation, emerging technologies, terrorism, and organized crime. The geographic scope of its CRIMARIO (Critical Maritime Routes) II activities will be extended from the Indian Ocean into South and Southeast Asia, aiming to contribute to safer sea lanes of communication with the EU.
India’s Role and Engagement
India and Europe share common concerns about increasing competition, power rivalry, and unilateral actions challenging the multilateral order and international laws. With an enhanced focus on strategic relations and engagement with other like-minded regional players, India and the EU can play a significant role in preserving an open, free, inclusive, and rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
Way Forward
There’s a growing realization of the need for a larger European role in the region. The European strategic community acknowledges that Europe’s strategic and economic interests are intrinsically linked to the Indo-Pacific region. The convergence of interests and shared values provides scope for deepening India-EU cooperation in the region to secure global commons, maintain stability, support economic prosperity cooperatively, and shape a stable multipolar order together.
Last Modified: February 11, 2024