Indo-Pacific

Shigeru Ishiba will seek multilateral agreements and seek to strengthen relationships with allies and neighbours. He has a vision for a safe, free and open Indo-Pacific. His government is still young and has not had the opportunity to make a change, but as a former defence minister, his policies seem logical.

Germany’s snap election on February 23 could bring a tougher China policy under Merz, marking a clear shift from Scholz’s pragmatic approach. While Merz warns against economic dependence, Germany’s recession may force a trade-off between strategic autonomy and economic stability. With China policy increasingly shaped by Brussels, Merz must rebuild EU trust to influence the bloc’s “de-risking” strategy.

What will the new US foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific look like? The US takes a Machiavellian stance in Hegseth's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue as Washington seeks to implement a hegemony by applying pressure to allies.

How can China maintain its alliance with Pakistan without worsening tensions with India or risking conflict? Deep ties between China and Pakistan fuel Indian perceptions of mistrust thus risking regional or proxy conflict, especially in light of Indian rise to global power. China should pursue a strategy of equidistance by balancing Pakistani ties while building confidence with India to avoid escalation.

How have Trump’s trade and defense policies influenced trilateral relations between China, Japan, and South Korea? Trump's tariffs and defense cost demands have driven the three countries to deepen cooperation, despite historical tensions. The future of trilateral relations depends on their ability to balance U.S. pressure, internal mistrust, and the need for regional stability.

The EU has increased focus on Southeast Asia in its global strategy. The EU and ASEAN launched the €9.3 million SCOPE program for research and mobility. Southeast Asia's strategic importance offers the EU a chance to expand its influence.

1.How did China adapt its strategy after the US’s Liberation Day measures? 2. China initially responded cautiously to US tariffs but, after Liberation Day, shifted towards a more intense and multifaceted counterstrategy, combining higher tariffs with diplomatic initiatives to rally international support. 3. China remains primarily reactive but has increased the intensity and scope of its responses.

1) What are the implications of Trump’s presidency for the Indo-Pacific? 2) Trump’s second term brings a mix of challenges and opportunities for the Indo-Pacific region, with implications for economy, security, and diplomatic relations 3) As Trump’s administration unfolds, countries in the region will need to adapt to his transactional approach and navigate the uncertainty his presidency may bring.

1. **Main Question:** What are China's policy priorities for the coming year? 2. **Argument:** China aims for 5% GDP growth, focusing on stimulating domestic consumption and supporting private enterprises, while increasing defense spending and managing debt. 3. **Conclusion:** China faces economic challenges but is pursuing ambitious growth targets via fiscal and monetary policies and strategic sector support.

China pledged 360 billion yuan ($50.7 billion) for Africa at the 2024 summit, focusing on infrastructure and green energy.

In 2024, several Western individuals were charged with spying for China, reflecting increased detection or activity amid strained China-West relations.

China's tech sector faces slowing growth, falling profits, and increased uncertainty, worsened by U.S. tariffs and geopolitical tensions.

In South Asia, Bangladesh and Pakistan face election controversies; India holds fair polls despite challenges.