Transatlantic Cooperation in the Free and Open Indo-Pacific

To RSVP or if you have any questions, please contact Danielle Piatkiewicz at +1 202 683 2939 or [email protected]

The Trump administration's “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” strategy introduced last year calls for U.S. allies and partners to ensure freedom of navigation and open trade in order to counter a rising China. This week, the president requested $1 billion for the initiative in the fiscal year 2020 annual budget presented to Congress. Whatever the cost, the United States and the Europe will have a significant say in whether the Indo-Pacific region remains free and open. Together, they represent the second and third largest economies in the world, more than half of global GDP, and are home to the European Union and NATO, the world’s foremost military alliance. Europe is enhancing its stake in the region: the EU is pursuing free trade agreements with multiple Asian nations. The UK, which wants to reestablish its global presence, has adopted the expansive view from Asia-Pacific to the Indo-Pacific framework, and has pledged participation in joint military exercises. France has sent naval frigates on several freedom of navigation operation missions in the South China Sea. What are the ways the U.S. and Europe can work together to further buttress the regional order? What are Europe’s most effective diplomatic, economic, and military tools for advancing its goals? How do countries in the Indo-Pacific region view the framework and where do they want to see increased involvement and cooperation with Europe?

Join us for opening remarks by Assistant Secretary of Defense, Randall Schriver and expert discussions as we explore transatlantic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The public event will take place at GMF's 1744 R Street NW office on March 28, 2019 from between 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Agenda