European Security Cooperation with the Indo-Pacific

As European interest and involvement in the Indo-Pacific increases, inevitable and pressing questions arise concerning the value of these ambitions for both European and Indo-Pacific security. Even before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, various European countries have for the first time identified China as a security challenge and recognized the urgency of addressing global security threats such as climate change and cyber warfare, leading to a shift in foreign and security policies. Importantly, a number of strategic policy pronouncements across Europe, from national security strategies to defense reviews, pointed to partnerships with like-minded states in the Indo-Pacific as critical components in addressing these emerging security challenges and helping to shore up European security.

Different terms have been used to describe the cross-regional cooperation between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific (see CSS Strategic Trends 2022). Reports and analyses frequently reference “inter-regional”, “cross-theater”, “inter-theater” and “Atlantic-Pacific” cooperation, and the idea that we are seeing the blurring of geopolitical boundaries into “one theater” or “single theater.” From a US foreign policy perspective, Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific cooperation can be seen as “bridging allies”, among other terms. In brief, these modes of cooperation include at least two state or intergovernmental entities from the two regions in any domain of statecraft – from diplomatic and economic, to military and intelligence. Another crucial factor to note is that the states under discussion are all part of US alliance and partner networks. While it is imperative to comprehend the various forms of cross-regional cooperation, this analysis focuses on security cooperation. This encompasses a diverse range of activities, though at its core it is aimed at fostering partnerships that align with and support partner states’ strategic objectives. Under this broad umbrella, various programs and terms are employed at strategic, operational, and tactical levels to benefit either one’s own country and/or that of the partner nation. This often includes efforts to bolster capacity, provide direct assistance or training to security forces, and support more robust defense institutions. Security cooperation efforts span from high-profile activities like joint training exercises and arms trade deals, to less conspicuous efforts like diplomatic talks, workshops, personnel exchanges, professional military education, and initiatives for achieving interoperability.