The Council of the European Union approved conclusions on a European Union strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
Aim:
- To reinforce its strategic focus, presence and actions in the Indo-Pacific region.
- To contribute to regional stability, security, prosperity and sustainable development at the time of “rising challenges and tensions in the region.”
Rationale:
- The current dynamics in the Indo-Pacific have given rise to:
- Intense geopolitical competition
- Increasing tensions on trade and supply chains
- Challenges in technological, political and security areas
- Issues related to Human rights
- As per the EU, these developments threaten the stability and security of the region and beyond, directly impacting on its interests.
Strategy by European Union:
- Increased cooperation in the Indo-Pacific
- Commitment to uphold democracy, human rights, the rule of law and respect for international law.
- Promote effective rules-based multilateralism
- Support for ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations)
- Work to mitigate economic and human effects of the COVID-19 pandemic
- Support open and fair environment for trade and investment
- Tackling climate change and supporting connectivity with the EU
- Conclude free trade agreements with Australia, Indonesia and New Zealand
- Take steps towards the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment with China
- Deepen economic relations with India
- Develop partnerships in the areas of security and defence
- Address maritime security, malicious cyber activities, disinformation, emerging technologies, terrorism, and organised crime
- Extend the geographic scope of its CRIMARIO (Critical Maritime Routes) IIactivities from the Indian Ocean into South and Southeast Asia to contribute to safer sea lanes of communication with the EU.
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