The German Government has recently formulated the profits, principles and central areas of German policy in the Indo-Pacific region. Federal Ministry of Defence said in a statement that the new guidelines also contributed to a possible European Union General strategy for the region.
The new guidelines provide a strategic framework for Germany’s political measures in the Indo-Pacific region. The political and economic weight is gradually shifting to the Indo-Pacific region with the rise of Asia, According to new guidelines, the region will be key to shaping the international order in the 21st century. For that reason, Germany also needs to prepare for a possible expansion of its security policy commitment. Under the auspices of the Federal Foreign Office, the Federal Ministry of Defence played a key role in the preparation of this inter-ministerial document.
From the perspective of the Federal Ministry of Defence, the issues of peace and security, including free sea routes, is particularly important. The German Government plans to expand its security policy engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. As well as expand security and defense policy cooperation with partners in the region, Defence Policy contacts in the region will intensify. German Minister of Defence, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer emphasized that it was time for Germany to defend its interests more strongly, In her opening speech on security policy at the Federal Armed Forces University last year. The minister said allies and partners would expect Germany to take the initiative and show options. This approach is reflected in the official guidelines of the federal government, with the measures currently adopted. These offer some touchpoints and offers to expand cooperation in the region.
Minister Kramp-Karrenbauer conducted a campaign for partners in the region in the city of Munich last year with the allies to show a greater presence in the region. “Because we are concerned about ensuring that existing laws are respected.” she said.
A task plan of the German Navy’s Sachsen-class F 220 frigate was prepared, The plan covers a five-month period this year in Indo-Pacific waters, including Reunion Island and Australia. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this mission planning has been delayed. Instead, the frigate was deployed in the beginning of August to attend the European Union’s operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI in the Mediterranean.