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Today Germany formally adopted an Indo-Pacific strategy. What's the significance of this move? What is in this strategy and why now? A short 
https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/aussenpolitik/regionaleschwerpunkte/asien/german-government-policy-guidelines-indo-pacific/2380510
https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/aussenpolitik/regionaleschwerpunkte/asien/german-government-policy-guidelines-indo-pacific/2380510
1) This makes Germany only the second European country after France to have a clear Indo-Pacific strategy. Many EU countries are considering changing their approaches to the region as well (Asia to IP)
2) Increasing recognition in Germany that "shifting geopolitical structures in IP will have a direct impact on GER" given its massive trade & econ relations with the region, second most important export destination after Europe
3) How will this strategy translate to practice? Key word: "diversification" - of partnerships & supply chains beyond China, strengthening relations with other IP partners.
4) Seems like multiple ministries were involved so it signals an all-of-govt change in policy and priorities. Guidelines are pretty comprehensive, around 40 pages long. (Still waiting for the Eng version).
5) ASEAN centrality - idea seems to have found great resonance in Berlin. Strengthening cooperation with ASEAN and SE Asia will be a key feature
6) Security: guidelines have an entire section on increasing security cooperation including maritime presence particularly in the Indian Ocean
7) The context & timing is most important. As Germany assumes the EU presidency, there will be a real push towards an EU approach to Indo-Pacific. This also comes at a time when European discontent with China is at an all time high.
8) A slow recognition that Indo-Pac countries will be important partners as Germany and Europe deal with China-related challenges, many of which are 'global' in impact.
9) Further reading, check out @noahbarkin's newsletter on how Germany & France are pushing for a "comprehensive strategy" towards China https://bit.ly/3lRF0e6
@ajwsmall on rising economic discontent with China in Europe https://bit.ly/32PJsRS
@ajwsmall on rising economic discontent with China in Europe https://bit.ly/32PJsRS
10) Further reading: by yours truly, on a European approach to the Indo-Pacific https://www.gppi.net/2020/08/20/a-european-approach-to-the-indo-pacific
