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Indo-Pacific Challenges: Collaborative Strategies for Security

  Navigating Challenges in the Indo-Pacific

Emma Logan of the UK Delegation to the OSCE expressed gratitude to the Chair for convening a pivotal meeting. She acknowledged the keynote speaker, Asian Partners, and panelists for their insightful discussions on the pressing challenges in the Indo-Pacific and their direct connection to regional security.   High Stakes in the Indo-Pacific The Indo-Pacific stands as a pivotal region for global sustainability and future prosperity, emphasizing the high stakes involved. As Logan highlighted, the area is witnessing an escalating geopolitical competition, marked by coercive and aggressive practices. The region's opaque military modernization is occurring at unprecedented rates, mirroring experiences in Europe and prompting the need for shared learning on responding to hybrid risks and defending democratic systems.  

Confronting Human Disruptions and Environmental Challenges

Beyond geopolitical concerns, the Indo-Pacific grapples with the extreme effects of climate change and biodiversity loss. The threat of rising sea levels and extreme weather poses an existential challenge, particularly for Pacific nations. Logan stressed the importance of addressing these challenges collaboratively.   Inseparable Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Security Highlighting the inseparability of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security, Logan pointed to the direct impact one has on the other. Economic shocks in Asia, resulting from Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, demonstrate the interconnectedness. The UK envisions a free and open Indo-Pacific, emphasizing sovereign choices, territorial integrity, and adherence to international law.  

Compliments to Partners and a Shared Vision

Logan commended the Republic of Korea for its Indo-Pacific strategy, aligning with the UK's vision. Both nations prioritize engagement in the digital future economy, with Korea's bold vision drawing praise. She also acknowledged ASEAN's Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing shared priorities in openness, sovereignty, international rules, maritime cooperation, connectivity, and sustainable development.   Lessons from OSCE for a Stable Future Drawing on the OSCE's foundation of comprehensive security, Logan stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue with Asian partners. Reflecting on the OSCE's history, lessons in transparency, confidence-building, military transparency, human rights, and anti-corruption efforts offer valuable insights for the Indo-Pacific. A collaborative exchange of experiences is deemed essential for a more stable and interconnected world.   Sources: THX News & Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office & Emma Logan, UK Delegation to the OSCE. Read the full article