The European Union’s Commitment to the Indo-Pacific Reaffirmed at the First-ever EU-Indo-Pacific Ministerial Meeting, in Brussels on 13 May 2023
EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum
The Indo-Pacific region is a strategic area of interest for the European Union (EU), as it encompasses some of the world's most dynamic economies, vital trade routes, and emerging security challenges. The EU has been increasing its engagement with the Indo-Pacific countries in recent years, through various initiatives such as the EU-Asia Connectivity Strategy, the EU Strategy on India, and the EU-Australia Framework Agreement.
One of the most significant steps taken by the EU to enhance its role and presence in the Indo-Pacific was the adoption of the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific in April 2021. The strategy outlines the EU's vision and objectives for a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, where human rights, democracy, and the rule of law are respected. The strategy also identifies four key areas of cooperation: security and defence; trade and investment; climate action and environmental protection; and digital transformation and connectivity.
The EU's commitment to the Indo-Pacific was reaffirmed at the first-ever EU-Indo-Pacific Ministerial meeting, held in Brussels on 13 May 2023. The meeting brought together foreign ministers from 27 EU member states and 21 Indo-Pacific partners, including India, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, and New Zealand. The meeting aimed to foster dialogue and cooperation on regional and global issues of common interest, such as the COVID-19 pandemic recovery, climate change, maritime security, counter-terrorism, cyber security, and human rights.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the statement made by India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, who stated that Europe has a stake in Indo-Pacific developments. He said that India welcomes the EU's strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, as it reflects a convergence of interests and values between India and the EU. He also stressed that India and the EU share a common vision of a multipolar world order based on multilateralism, respect for international law, and peaceful resolution of disputes. He added that India and the EU can work together to promote stability, prosperity, and connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region.
The statement by Jaishankar was significant for several reasons. First, it signalled India's recognition of the EU as a credible and relevant actor in the Indo-Pacific. Second, it indicated India's willingness to engage with the EU on a range of strategic issues beyond trade and investment. Third, it demonstrated India's support for the EU's approach to the Indo-Pacific, which is based on inclusiveness and cooperation rather than confrontation or containment. Fourth, it reflected India's desire to diversify its partnerships in the Indo-Pacific amid rising tensions with China.
The EU-Indo-Pacific Ministerial meeting and Jaishankar's statement were important milestones in strengthening the EU-India strategic partnership. They also showed that the EU and India have a lot to offer each other in shaping a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. The challenge ahead is to translate this political momentum into concrete actions and outcomes that benefit both sides and their partners.