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Germany is showing a renewed interest in the Indo-Pacific, enhancing cooperation with Australia and like-minded countries and implementing a values-based foreign policy.Summary
A new three-party coalition government in Germany signals changes in Germany’s approach to the Indo-Pacific.
Key points:
- Germany will send vessels into the Indo-Pacific every two years.
- Increased cooperation with Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Australia and the US.
- Support for the rules-based international order in the South China Sea.
- The German Air Force will participate in Exercise Pitch Black, bringing six Eurofighters, three refuelling tankers and three transport aircraft.
- Focus on multilateralism, democracy, climate protection, trade and digitalisation.
- Expanded cooperation between the EU and ASEAN.
- Stronger strategic partnership with India.
- Support those affected by rising sea levels.
Approach to China
- Values driven policy allowing criticism of China’s internal affairs.
- Opposes the ‘one-China’ policy.
- Supports Taiwan’s inclusion in international organisations.
- Wants China to return to the ‘one country, two systems’ principle for Hong Kong and address human rights violations in Xinjiang.
Worth noting and remembering the following:
- Foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock, described China’s Belt and Road Initiative as ‘hardcore power politics’ and supports banning products from Xinjiang.
- German frigate Bayern has recently spent seven months in the Indo-Pacific.
References
Recent Runway Posts related to this topic:
- Germany's Scholz seals deal to end Merkel era---The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
- South China Sea: why France is flexing its muscles in the contested waters---The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
- Britain tilts towards the Indo-Pacific---The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
- Germany plans a greater peace and security role in the Indo-Pacific---The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
References from the Web:
- NOV 2021 As Europe looks to the Indo-Pacific, so does the Luftwaffe---DefenseNews
- DEC 2021 German frigate isn’t in the Indo-Pacific as a part of a carrier strike group, says navy chief---CNBC
- JAN 2022 Germany Nervously Tests the Indo-Pacific Waters---FP(ForeignPolicy)
Source Information ASPI
- Article Source:| Australian Strategic Policy Institute | ASPI
- Media Check: About Us | Australian Strategic Policy Institute | ASPI
- Learning Outcomes: RUNWAY TOPICS: LEARNING OUTCOMES | The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
