South East Asia

The European Union’s (EU) new strategic action plan to counter the consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine focuses on building stronger relationships with Brazil, Chile, Nigeria, and Kazakhstan. However, Simone Galimberti highlights the surprising exclusion of South East Asia, a crucial region for Europe’s geopolitical ambitions. Galimberti argues that the EU should prioritize engaging with key countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, considering their strategic relationships with China and the regional tensions in the South China Sea. A dedicated high-level figure and visits from EU leaders would demonstrate the EU’s commitment to South East Asia’s importance.