Mon Nov 25 14:19:11 UTC 2024: ## UK Commits to Long-Term Indo-Pacific Engagement

**London, November 25, 2024** – The United Kingdom has declared its commitment to a long-term strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific region, marking a significant policy shift under the Labour government. This commitment, announced by Indo-Pacific Minister Catherine West at the second Indo-Pacific Conference in London, surpasses the previous Conservative government’s “tilt” towards the region.

Ms. West emphasized that this is a generational mission, not a short-term strategy. The UK’s focus on the Indo-Pacific is driven by three key pillars: global growth, climate change mitigation, and strengthening national and global security. The Minister highlighted the centrality of ASEAN and the interconnectedness of Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic security, citing North Korea’s support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict as an example.

This commitment is backed by concrete actions. The Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group will deploy to the Indo-Pacific in 2025, a plan initiated under the previous government. Furthermore, the UK is co-leading the maritime security pillar of India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, and actively pursuing closer defense collaboration with India. Ms. West also reiterated the UK’s aim for a comprehensive trade deal with India.

Regarding China, the UK will adopt a “compete, cooperate, and challenge” approach. While seeking cooperation where possible, particularly on trade and climate action, the UK will challenge China’s actions that undermine its interests, such as the erosion of democratic freedoms in Hong Kong.

India’s High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, emphasized the interconnectedness of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions, highlighting the natural partnership between the UK and India given their historical ties and shared strategic interests. The UK’s long-term commitment to the Indo-Pacific underscores its growing importance in the global geopolitical landscape.

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