Indo-Pacific Crossroads: Canada, Taiwan and Regional Partners in Dialogue on Security
The Indo-Pacific Crossroads dialogue, held in Taipei, brings together CAN, TWN, and regional partners to discuss security in the Indo-Pacific. This Track 2 dialogue facilitates discussions among experts, policymakers, and academics on critical issues affecting the region, including geopolitical shifts, economic security, and regional stability. The event aims to foster deeper understanding and collaboration on shared security challenges and opportunities.
Committees & topics
Why it matters
The Indo-Pacific region is a focal point of global geopolitical and economic competition, making dialogues like the Indo-Pacific Crossroads essential for maintaining stability and fostering cooperation. The participation of CAN and TWN, alongside other regional partners, underscores the growing recognition of the interconnectedness of security challenges and the need for multilateral approaches. The discussions cover a range of topics from traditional security concerns to emerging threats, providing a comprehensive platform for addressing the complexities of the region.
This dialogue is particularly significant given the evolving security landscape in the Indo-Pacific, characterized by increasing strategic competition and the assertion of influence by major powers. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the event contributes to the development of nuanced policy recommendations and strengthens informal diplomatic channels. The focus on regional partners highlights the importance of inclusive approaches to security, ensuring that a wide array of voices and interests are considered in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific.
How to prepare
Participants preparing for the Indo-Pacific Crossroads dialogue should focus on understanding the current geopolitical dynamics of the Indo-Pacific, with particular attention to the roles and interests of CAN, TWN, and other key regional actors. Reviewing recent policy statements and strategic documents from these countries regarding Indo-Pacific security will be beneficial. Familiarity with the concept of Track 2 diplomacy and its objectives will also be valuable, as this format encourages candid and exploratory discussions outside formal governmental channels.
To maximize engagement, delegates should consider how their expertise aligns with the event's themes, such as economic security, maritime security, or regional partnerships. Developing a clear understanding of potential areas for cooperation and divergence among participating nations, especially concerning sensitive issues like cross-strait relations or regional power balances, is crucial. Resources like the "Dynamic Analysis" and "Engagement Strategies" lessons can offer frameworks for effective participation in such complex dialogues. Additionally, exploring the "Hidden Stakeholders" lesson can provide insight into identifying and understanding the various actors influencing regional security.
Country perspectives
Where the most-relevant 8 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile.
CanadaCanada seeks to enhance its presence and engagement in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing a rules-based international order and economic diversification.
Role in topic
Canada participates as a key partner, aiming to contribute to regional stability and security through diplomatic engagement and collaboration with like-minded countries. Its involvement reflects a broader strategy to deepen ties in the Indo-Pacific.
TaiwanTaiwan aims to strengthen its security partnerships and maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the broader Indo-Pacific region.
Role in topic
Taiwan serves as the host and a central participant, highlighting its critical geopolitical position and its efforts to engage with international partners on security matters, particularly in the face of regional challenges.
United StatesThe United States maintains a robust security presence in the Indo-Pacific, supporting its allies and partners to uphold a free and open regional order.
Role in topic
While not explicitly listed as a direct participant in this specific dialogue, the US's strategic interests and alliances significantly influence the regional security discussions. Its policies often serve as a backdrop for the perspectives of other regional partners.
JapanJapan actively promotes a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific' vision, focusing on maritime security, economic connectivity, and upholding international law.
Role in topic
Japan is a crucial regional partner, bringing its extensive experience and strategic interests in maritime security and regional stability to the dialogue. Its perspective is vital for understanding the broader security architecture of the Indo-Pacific.
AustraliaAustralia is committed to a secure, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, strengthening alliances and partnerships to address regional challenges.
Role in topic
Australia's participation as a regional partner underscores its commitment to multilateral security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Its insights into regional defense and strategic partnerships are valuable contributions to the discussions.
South KoreaSouth Korea seeks to enhance its role as a global pivotal state, contributing to regional peace and prosperity through cooperation and diplomacy.
Role in topic
South Korea, as a significant regional player, offers perspectives on economic security, technological cooperation, and regional stability, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Indo-Pacific challenges.
PhilippinesThe Philippines prioritizes national security and territorial integrity, strengthening defense capabilities and alliances in the face of regional maritime disputes.
Role in topic
The Philippines, situated at a critical maritime crossroads, provides a frontline perspective on maritime security challenges and the importance of international law in resolving disputes within the Indo-Pacific.
ChinaChina asserts its sovereignty and territorial claims in the Indo-Pacific, advocating for a regional order that reflects its growing influence.
Role in topic
China's actions and strategic objectives are a central theme in Indo-Pacific security discussions. While not a direct participant in this Track 2 dialogue, its regional posture is a primary driver of the security concerns and cooperative efforts discussed by other nations.
Topics & background
The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it.
Economic Security in the Indo-Pacific
Key players
- United States
Architect of export controls, IPEF, and allied economic-security coordination
- China
Principal target of de-risking and main user of economic coercion tools
- Taiwan
Indispensable node in advanced semiconductor supply chains
- Japan
Leader in chip-equipment controls and supply-chain resilience policy
- Canada
Critical-minerals supplier advancing an Indo-Pacific Strategy and investment screening
- Australia
Veteran of Chinese coercion; key partner on critical minerals and AUKUS tech
Middle Powers and Regional Security
Key players
- Canada
Convenor of Indo-Pacific Strategy emphasizing rules, partnerships, and naval presence
- Japan
Leading middle-power security actor reshaping its defence posture
- Australia
AUKUS partner and key Pacific and Southeast Asian security provider
- South Korea
Expanding Indo-Pacific role via Camp David trilateral and defence exports
- Philippines
Frontline state in South China Sea, hub of new minilateral cooperation
- Taiwan
Central security concern and emerging partner in non-traditional security dialogues
Lawfare and Contestation in International Law
Key players
- China
Principal revisionist actor on UNCLOS, Resolution 2758, and sovereignty norms
- Philippines
Litigant in the 2016 arbitration and frontline of maritime legal contestation
- United States
Champion of FONOPs and rules-based order, though non-party to UNCLOS
- Canada
Advocate for international adjudication and Taiwan's meaningful participation
- Taiwan
Subject of Resolution 2758 debates and excluded from key UN bodies
- Japan
Active defender of UNCLOS and proponent of a 'free and open' legal order
Resources
News, lessons, and country profiles to prep for Indo-Pacific Crossroads: Canada, Taiwan and Regional Partners in Dialogue on Security.
Recent reporting to ground your prep
Lessons
Bite-sized lessons to build the basics
Courses
Guided courses that go deeper on the topic
The states in play, with the data that shapes their stance