Image Source: Bloomberg
Germany's new Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has reaffirmed that a secure and stable Indo-Pacific is important for Germany and the European Union. Highlighting the region's importance for international trade and economic interests, Merz has mapped out his government's intent to preserve open lines of trade and strengthen strategic partnerships throughout the Indo-Pacific. This policy is an extension-and intensification-of Germany's shift towards the region, driven by both economic imperatives and changing geopolitical dynamics.
Strategic Significance of the Indo-Pacific
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The Indo-Pacific has been characterized as "crucial to the prosperity and security of Germany and the European Union," with virtually 40% of Germany's external trade being conducted through the region.
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Unimpeded, open, and secure maritime paths are viewed as indispensable lifelines for the German and European economies, particularly for essential supply chains such as semiconductors and raw materials.
Economic Interests and Free Trade
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Indo-Pacific trade represents around one-fifth of Germany's international trade, supporting many jobs and economic growth domestically.
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The Merz government is determined to deepen economic diversification, mitigate reliance on one market (primarily China), and promote ambitious free trade agreements in the region, such as current EU-India FTA talks.
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Germany's strategy involves developing sectoral trade in machinery, electronics, chemicals, aviation, and automobiles, in addition to cooperation in technology and digital infrastructure.
Security and Geopolitical Priorities
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Germany will continue and even expand its naval presence in the Indo-Pacific, engaging in joint exercises with allies like India, Japan, and the US to protect sea lanes and push back against rising Chinese influence.
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The new administration is developing a national security strategy that puts first resilience, de-risking from authoritarian powers, and promoting democratic values in the region.
Strategic Partnerships
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India has been recognized as an important energy and security partner with whom Germany hopes to deepen strategic cooperation at all levels, including global energy transition and security cooperation.
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Other close partners are Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea, with full-fledged strategic partnerships envisioned to improve regional stability and prosperity.
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Germany will continue to favor Taiwan's substantial participation in international organizations and maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
European Coordination and Global Role
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The Merz government aims to mobilize EU resources for a common Indo-Pacific policy, raise the EU's security profile in the region, and coordinate trade and foreign policy interests.
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Germany's Indo-Pacific policy is also deeply connected to the EU's Global Gateway initiative to support sustainable infrastructure and connectivity projects in the region.
Response to Rising Tensions and Global Challenges
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The policy realignment occurs against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical rivalry, tensions on the Korean peninsula, and interruptions to commercial shipping, including Houthi strikes in the Red Sea.
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Germany's re-aligned strategy is regarded as a reaction to economic vulnerabilities (particularly to China) as well as a requirement for increased technological and supply chain resilience.
Sources: The Diplomat, Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Global Public Policy Institute (GPPi), German Federal Foreign Office Progress Report, Prospect Foundation
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