The European Union (EU) and India have found common ground in the Indo-Pacific, solidifying their commitment to security and defence cooperation. Recent initiatives and dialogues underscore the growing importance of this partnership in addressing shared security challenges, particularly in the maritime domain.
The “Road to Schuman” event, organized by the Delegation of the European Union to India on May 6, 2024, served as a pivotal moment for stakeholders to converge and discuss the security environment in the Indo-Pacific. The event was titled “The security environment in the Indo-Pacific region and the EU’s role as a security actor in partnership/cooperation with India”.
Joanneke Balfoort, Director of Security and Defence Policy at the European External Action Service, underlined the crucial nature of partnerships in maintaining global peace and security. She highlighted India’s strategic significance as a key partner for the EU in navigating the complexities of the Indo-Pacific.
“We see India, a country with considerable strategic weight on the global security balance, as a key partner for the EU in the Indo-Pacific.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Hervé Delphin, EU Ambassador to India, underscored the pressing need for collaboration in the face of rising security threats worldwide. The EU’s commitment to fortifying its security and defence capabilities aligns with its efforts to engage with international partners, including India, in promoting stability and resilience.
“The global environment has turned more volatile and unstable with war and security threats on the rise. The EU is adapting to this new reality by enhancing its own security and defence but also by working together with international partners to address common security challenges to promote peace and stability. The growing interconnectedness between dynamics in Europe and the Indo-Pacific region means that cooperation with Asian partners and most notably with India has become more important than ever”, said Hervé Delphin, EU Ambassador to India.
The seminar provided a platform for experts from both regions to exchange insights on regional security dynamics and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation.
Maritime security emerged as a focal point during discussions, with the EU showcasing initiatives such as EUNAVFOR Operation ASPIDES in the Red Sea as tangible examples of its commitment to regional stability. While strides have been made in areas such as maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cyber-defence, there remains untapped potential for collaboration in emerging security domains like space and artificial intelligence.
Schuman Security and Defence Forum
Looking ahead, the second edition of the Schuman Security and Defence Forum, scheduled for May 28-29 in Brussels, offers an opportunity to deepen EU-India security cooperation. Bringing together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders, the forum will facilitate dialogue on addressing common security threats and shaping a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. India’s participation underscores its pivotal role in the EU’s strategic calculus.
EU-India Security and Defence Consultations
The recent EU-India Security and Defence Consultations reaffirmed both sides’ commitment to upholding a free, open, and inclusive maritime order in the Indo-Pacific. Highlighting the principles of democracy, rule of law, and respect for international norms, the consultations laid the groundwork for deeper collaboration in safeguarding shared interests.
The EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Global Gateway initiative underscore its long-term commitment to the region’s stability and prosperity. By acting as an “intelligent facilitator” for peace and security, the EU seeks to foster partnerships with regional actors, with India playing a central role in this endeavour.
In conclusion, the merging of EU and Indian interests in the Indo-Pacific reflects a shared commitment to shaping a more secure and prosperous future. As both regions navigate complex security challenges, collaboration and dialogue will remain essential. By leveraging their respective strengths and fostering greater cooperation, the EU and India can contribute significantly to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.