States across the globe are defining conceptions of, and strategies for engaging, the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), an emerging geopolitical construct that extends from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. Many of these states have different definitions of the geographic scope of the Indo-Pacific, not to mention different visions and interests for the region. Some, including Canada, have yet to define a stance.
As the Indo-Pacific strategic environment continues to evolve in unpredictable ways, and despite these varying characterizations of FOIP, it is important for Canada and like-minded states across the region to develop multilateral standards and strategies in response to regional issues. To achieve greater regional co-ordination between such states, frank dialogue around specific opportunities for co-operation is essential.
To this end, the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, with the support of the Japanese Embassy in Ottawa and other public and private sector partners, will convene a conference in Vancouver on January 22/23 2020 to facilitate such a dialogue.
The Free and Open Indo-Pacific: Charting a Common Approach conference will explore different states’ understanding of the FOIP concept as it applies to their domestic, foreign, and security policy-making processes. Speakers and participants will be invited from Canada and Japan, as well as from ASEAN member states, Australia, New Zealand, India, and the United States. Participants will provide an overview of their state’s respective understanding of the FOIP concept and outline state-directed activities undertaken in support of FOIP.
In particular, participants will explore the three broad and interconnected themes of governance, economic interconnectivity, and security challenges, all with an eye on facilitating unity of action. Within these themes, there are a number of specific issue areas with strong opportunities for regional co-operation. These include, but are not limited to: international law, trade and investment, energy and food security, gender and indigenous relations, supply chain management, maritime security, and peace-support co-operation in the Indo-Pacific.
The Free and Open Indo-Pacific: Charting a Common Approach conference will serve as a venue for informed scholarship and policy discussion – the first step in actualizing a common approach challenges for the Indo-Pacific.
By Invitation Only
