Significantly in a move, Bharat and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting a free and rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific region.
The two parties convened for their second security and defense consultations in New Delhi, where they discussed bolstering security cooperation amidst China’s escalating assertiveness across the Indo-Pacific.
The consultations, co-chaired by joint secretary Vishvesh Negi from Bharat’s defense ministry and Joanneke Balfoort, director for security and defense policy at the European External Action Service, resulted in a mutual agreement to deepen their collaboration in security and defense matters.
This comes as the EU continues efforts to bolster its presence in the region and forge a stronger security partnership with Bharat.
Central to their discussions was the shared commitment to uphold a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific. Both sides noted the significance of respecting territorial integrity, sovereignty, democracy, the rule of law, and freedom of navigation and overflight.
They also underscored the importance of resolving disputes peacefully in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Recognition of the mutual interests in each other’s prosperity and security, the EU highlighted its Indo-Pacific strategy and Global Gateway initiative aimed at fostering stability, security, prosperity, and sustainable development in the region.
In addition, the EU aims to promote democracy, rule of law, human rights, and international law as a facilitator for peace and security, particularly in collaboration with Bharat.
Over the years, security cooperation between the EU and Bharat has encompassed various areas including counter-terrorism, cyber, and maritime security. Both parties see immense potential for further enhancing cooperation, especially in key areas like the Indian Ocean, where security challenges persist.
The EU delegation in Bharat organized a seminar focusing on the security environment in the Indo-Pacific region and the EU’s role as a security actor in partnership with Bharat.
The seminar provided a platform for experts, diplomats, and officials to exchange views on regional security challenges, maritime security, and policy developments related to the EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy and Bharat’s Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative.
During the seminar, Joanneke Balfoort emphasized the importance of mutually beneficial partnerships in achieving peace and security in today’s interconnected world. She identified Bharat as a key partner for the EU in the Indo-Pacific, given its significant strategic influence.
EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin highlighted the increasing volatility and instability in the global environment, emphasizing the EU’s efforts to enhance its security and defense capabilities while collaborating with international partners to address common security challenges.
He stressed the growing importance of cooperation with Bharat in various areas including maritime security, counter-terrorism, cyber-security, and non-proliferation.
Looking ahead, both Bharat and the EU are poised to further strengthen their relationship, with potential areas of cooperation extending to space, hybrid and cyber threats, and the security dimensions of artificial intelligence.
As the global landscape evolves, the commitment of Bharat and the EU to a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific remains steadfast.
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