Canadian Armed Forces Strengthen Ties in Alaska

Canadian Armed Forces Strengthen Ties in Alaska

Over 350 Canadian Army soldiers, primarily from the 3rd Battalion of Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (3 PPCLI), are gearing up to demonstrate their cold-weather combat skills in Alaska. This exercise, occurring at the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC), Fort Wainwright, will run from February 13 to 22, 2024.

Teaming Up with Allies

In what promises to be a powerful demonstration of international cooperation, Canadian soldiers will collaborate with their American counterparts from the 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the 11th Airborne Division. Soldiers from Mongolia and the Republic of Korea will also partake in this exercise. This collaboration is an opportunity for the Canadian Armed Forces to strengthen inter-army relations within the Indo-Pacific region. Air Force Participation The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) is not left out of this exercise. With about 165 personnel from 1 Wing set to participate, the RCAF will deploy three CH-147 Chinook and six CH-146 Griffon helicopters. Approximately 100 other Canadian Armed Forces personnel will support the exercise in various ways, bringing the total Canadian contribution to about 600 personnel. Global Resolve: A Test of Readiness Exercise GLOBAL RESOLVE 24 is an annual event that tests the readiness of the Canadian Army's light infantry battalions. Being a part of the Global Response Task Force (GRTF), these battalions go through rigorous training and experiences in diverse environments.

Commanders Speak

Lieutenant-General Jocelyn Paul, Commander, of the Canadian Army said: “Exercise GLOBAL RESOLVE 24 ensures the Canadian Army can conduct combat operations in challenging cold weather conditions and in the Arctic, but also serves as an opportunity to strengthen ties with crucial partners in the Indo-Pacific - especially our hosts: the 11th Airborne Division of the US Army Pacific. As we face an increasingly volatile security environment around the globe, I am incredibly proud to see our soldiers train together and sharpen their skills. The Arctic is experiencing growing competition, and the Canadian Army must remain ready to support the Government of Canada’s strategies in this important region.” Major-General Roch Pelletier, Commander, of the Canadian Army Doctrine and Training Centre said:  “The training conducted at the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center alongside our American allies and Indo-Pacific partners shows the Canadian Army’s commitment to maintain individual and collective proficiency in Arctic and Cold Weather operations. Thanks to the relationship that exists between the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre and the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center, US, Canadian, and Indo-Pacific partner nation soldiers will prove their combat readiness shoulder-to-shoulder during the same exercise.”

Prepared for Global Challenges

Lieutenant Colonel Ben Schmidt, Commanding Officer, of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, emphasized that such high-level training demonstrates the capability of a light infantry unit and prepares them to operate in various global environments. Exercise GLOBAL RESOLVE 24 will affirm the Canadian Armed Forces' readiness and strengthen ties with key allies and partners. Sources: THX News & National Defence. Read the full article

Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Launches in U.S. Embassy - Kuala Lumpur

  The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announced today the launch of its first-ever regional summit for the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs in the Indo-Pacific region and welcomed more than 200 businesswomen from Brunei, Fiji, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. This summit is just part of broader U.S. efforts to engage in people-to-people diplomacy in the region. The  AWE provides women with the knowledge, networks, and access they need to launch or scale successful businesses in communities and countries worldwide. It boasts a global network of 25,000 women. The Summit, which runs from March 6-9 and is hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, leverages interactive workshops led by American businesswomen, key engagements from Malaysian and U.S. Government officials, networking opportunities for Summit participants, and a visit to a local business accelerator to strengthen and advance women-led businesses across the Indo-Pacific region. Nancy Wang, General Manager, Amazon Web Services and Venture Partner at Felicis, will deliver the Summit’s keynote address on International Women’s Day, Wednesday, March 8. In addition, Rekha Pai, an angel investor and partner at Silicon Valley Social Venture Fund, will spearhead interactive workshops focused on financing, addressing different avenues for funding a business, and designing winning business pitches for investors throughout the Summit. The Biden Administration has outlined that the Indo-Pacific is a strategic geographic region for U.S. foreign policy engagement as part of its National Security Strategy, and this AWE Summit supports broader U.S. engagement in the region.  

Launch Academy For Women Entrepreneurs. Photo by United States Embassy Kuala Lumpur. Flickr.  

About the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs

The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) is a unique organization dedicated to helping women become successful business owners. Founded in 2019, it provides resources and support to female entrepreneurs around the world. AWE was established with the mission of empowering women by providing them with the tools, connections, and education needed to help them succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors. The Academy offers comprehensive programs that cover all aspects of starting and running a business including financing, accounting, marketing, technology and more. The support provided by AWE has enabled countless women to create prosperous businesses from their own ideas and hard work. AWE also serves as an influential voice for female entrepreneurs through its advocacy efforts on behalf of its members. The organization works with governments across the globe to promote policies that are beneficial for female business owners such as access to capital, tax credits and other forms of assistance.   Sources: THX News, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs & US Department of State. Read the full article

Charting Our Path: Australian International Development Policy

  A Vision for a Peaceful and Prosperous Indo-Pacific

In a significant stride towards bolstering Australia's influence and promoting a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, the Albanese Government has introduced a comprehensive and forward-looking international development policy. This trailblazing initiative, the first of its kind in nearly a decade, will serve as a cornerstone for Australia's engagement, positioning the nation as a prime partner of choice for the region.   Addressing Regional Challenges Through Sustainable Investments At the heart of this new policy lies an unwavering commitment to address pressing regional challenges head-on. The government's strategic focus centers on marshaling aid investments to combat complex issues such as poverty, economic growth, healthcare, infrastructure development, climate change, and gender equality. By harnessing these resources, Australia aims to carve a transformative path toward inclusive prosperity and sustainable progress within the Indo-Pacific.  

A Framework of Effectiveness and Transparency

By emphasizing a paradigm shift toward efficacy, responsiveness, transparency, and accountability, the meticulously designed new policy stands resilient against the multifaceted challenges and opportunities of the modern era. The Albanese Government envisions a development program that finely tunes to the region's needs and delivers tangible outcomes resonating on both local and global scales.   Forging Authentic Partnerships and Empowering Communities Australia's visionary approach extends beyond traditional avenues. The policy embraces a renewed commitment to fostering genuine, respectful partnerships through increased investments in locally-led solutions. By nurturing local job creation and economic opportunities, a novel fund is set to be established, poised to directly support community organizations within the region and catalyze impactful local development initiatives.  

Prioritizing Gender Equality and Climate Action

At its core, the development program champions unwavering commitments to gender equality and climate action. The policy envisions the integration of fresh targets to amplify the resilience of Australian development assistance in confronting climate impacts and enhancing the lives of women and girls. This commitment reflects Australia's dedication to inclusivity and the cultivation of a sustainable future.  

A Catalyst for Progress

This ambitious policy framework serves as a bedrock for the Albanese Government's sweeping international development investments, which have already translated into $1.7 billion in new funding over a span of five years. The policy showcases a steadfast dedication to the sustained growth of the development program, echoing Australia's pledge to advance positive change on the global stage.   A Comprehensive Performance Assessment A pioneering performance and delivery framework is poised to guide the seamless implementation of the policy's visionary tenets. This robust structure will systematically measure the impact and effectiveness of Australia's ongoing endeavors, reinforcing the nation's commitment to transparency and results-driven strategies.   Reinvigorating Expertise and Skills In tandem with these groundbreaking developments, the Albanese Government has pledged to strengthen the arsenal of development skills and expertise within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This commitment is a direct response to the challenges posed by nine years of prior budget cuts and neglect, aiming to fortify Australia's influence on the global stage.  

A Thriving Partnership Landscape

Simultaneously, the government has released the findings of the Development Finance Review, a comprehensive assessment conducted by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. In a resounding display of commitment, the government has embraced all eight recommendations, propelling Australia towards enhanced partnerships with impact investors and philanthropists. This strategic maneuver is poised to amplify the influx of private finance aimed at advancing transformative development outcomes in the Indo-Pacific.  

A Catalyst for Private Investment

In alignment with the Review's insights, the government is set to introduce Australian Development Investments, a groundbreaking initiative designed to facilitate up to $250 million in catalytic support for private impact investment across the Indo-Pacific. This visionary step underscores Australia's resolve to foster sustainable change through innovative financial mechanisms.  

A Confluence of Consultation and Vision

Crucially, the formulation of this groundbreaking development policy and the comprehensive Development Finance Review drew extensively from consultations across Australia and the Indo-Pacific region. The Albanese Government extends its gratitude to all participants for their invaluable contributions, which have shaped a roadmap toward a more prosperous and harmonious future.   A Pledge to Catalyze Change These dynamic policy initiatives stand as a testament to the Albanese Government's resolute commitment to rejuvenate and elevate Australia's development program. With a resolute focus on achieving positive outcomes, the nation stands poised to navigate uncharted territories and carve a brighter path for the entire region.   Quotes attributable to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong: “Australia is resolutely leveraging its comprehensive national resources to champion its interests and drive positive global transformation. “Economic development and prosperity are the bedrock of lasting peace and stability. “This visionary policy reinforces Australia's steadfast presence—extending beyond times of crises—by collaborating with the region to bolster resilience and facilitate the attainment of shared aspirations. “Our novel policy blueprint will guide the convergence of Australia's development program with our diplomatic, defense, and economic engagements.”   Quotes attributable to the Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP: “The Albanese Government is spearheading the revitalization and reinvestment in Australia's development program, following the previous administration's detrimental budget cuts and neglect of development expertise. “Our trajectory aligns with the priorities of our partner nations, envisaging a future where poverty is eradicated, resilience is fortified, and regional relationships are deepened. “We are committed to nurturing homegrown solutions that yield dual dividends—propelling local job growth, generating on-ground economic benefits, and enhancing the global impact of Australia's investments.”   Sources: THX News, Minister for Foreign Affairs & The Hon Pat Conroy MP. Read the full article

Quad Ministers Reach Agreement in New Delhi

  Official Joint Statement

The following is the joint statement released by the Secretary of State of the United States and the Foreign Ministers of the Governments of Australia, India, and Japan on the occasion of the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. We, the Foreign Ministers of Australia, India and Japan and the Secretary of State of the United States of America met in New Delhi, India on March 3, 2023, for the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Our meeting today reaffirms the Quad’s steadfast commitment to supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific, which is inclusive and resilient. We strongly support the principles of freedom, rule of law, sovereignty and territorial integrity, peaceful settlement of disputes without resorting to threat or use of force and freedom of navigation and overflight, and oppose any unilateral attempt to change the status quo, all of which are essential to the peace, stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. We reiterate our conviction that the Quad, acting as a force for regional and global good, will be guided by the priorities of the Indo-Pacific region through its positive and constructive agenda. Through the Quad, we seek to support the region through practical cooperation on contemporary challenges such as health security, climate change and the clean energy transition, critical and emerging technologies, infrastructure and connectivity, addressing the debt crisis through sustainable, transparent and fair lending and financing practices, space cooperation, cyber-security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, maritime security and counterterrorism.  

ASEAN

Reaffirming our consistent and unwavering support for ASEAN centrality and unity, and the ASEAN-led architecture, including the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum, we remain committed to supporting implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and will be guided in our work by ASEAN’s principles and priorities. We welcome Indonesia’s 2023 ASEAN Chairmanship and will support its Chair theme “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth,” as we identify tangible areas for the Quad to support the work of ASEAN. In addition, we are committed to further strengthening our respective relationships with ASEAN, thus creating a platform for greater Quad collaboration in support of the AOIP.  

Pacific Islands

We are committed to supporting Pacific Island countries in line with the objectives of the Pacific Islands Forum’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, guided by Pacific priorities of climate change, resilient infrastructure, and maritime security. We support regional institutions in the Pacific and are also further strengthening our cooperation with the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), to address the region’s most pressing and important challenges. We welcome India’s leadership in finalizing the IORA Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. We are pleased to note the progress made under the Quad Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Partnership (HADR) for the Indo-Pacific, since our last meeting in September 2022, when we signed onto the Guidelines for the Partnership. We welcome the outcomes of the first HADR tabletop exercise and biannual meeting held in India in December 2022. We look forward to the finalization of the Partnership’s Standard Operating Procedures which would enable an efficacious and coordinated response mechanism.  

UN Charter

We concur that the rules-based international order is anchored in international law, including the UN Charter, and the principles of sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity of all states. We are committed to cooperate to address attempts to unilaterally subvert the UN and international system, in consultation with our partners and through multilateral and international platforms. We reiterate our unwavering support for the UN Charter, including its three pillars, and our steadfast commitment to strengthening the UN and international system through a comprehensive reform agenda, including through expansion in permanent and non-permanent seats of the UN Security Council. In this regard, we commit to active and constructive engagement in the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) process on Security Council Reforms with an overall objective of making the UN Security Council more effective, representative, and credible. We will support meritorious and independent candidates for elections in the UN and in international forums to maintain the integrity and impartiality of the international system. We note with appreciation the UN Secretary General’s call for full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this regard, we underscore the importance of achieving SDGs in a comprehensive manner without prioritizing a narrow set of such goals, and reaffirm that the UN has a central role in supporting countries in its implementation.  

Maritime

We recognize that peace and security in the maritime domain underpins the development and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific, and reiterate the importance of respect for sovereignty, consistent with international law. We reiterate the importance of adherence to international law, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to meet challenges to the maritime rules-based order, including in the South and East China Seas. We strongly oppose any unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo or increase tensions in the area. We express serious concern at the militarization of disputed features, the dangerous use of coast guard vessels and maritime militia, and efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore resource exploitation activities. We are determined to deepen engagement with regional partners, including through information-sharing, capacity-building and technical assistance, to strengthen maritime domain awareness; to counter illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing; to enhance their capability to protect and develop offshore resources, consistent with UNCLOS; to ensure freedom of navigation and overflight; and to promote the safety and security of sea lines of communication. We look forward to continuing these discussions at the Quad Maritime Security Working Group meeting hosted by the United States in Washington, D.C., in March 2023. In this context, we welcome the progress made under the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA).  

Terrorism

We unequivocally condemn terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations. We denounce the use of terrorist proxies and emphasize the importance of denying any logistical, financial, or military support to terrorist organizations which could be used to launch or plan terrorist attacks, including transnational and cross-border attacks. We reiterate our condemnation of terrorist attacks, including 26/11 Mumbai, which claimed lives of citizens from all Quad countries, and Pathankot attacks. We are committed to working together with our regional and international partners to promote accountability for the perpetrators of such terrorist attacks, including through designations by the UN Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee. In this regard, we express our concern at attempts to politicize the working of the UNSC Sanctions Regimes and call on all states to maintain the transparent, objective, and evidence based working methods of UNSC Sanctions Committees. We note with deep concern that terrorism has become increasingly diffuse, aided by terrorists’ adaptation to, and the use of, emerging and evolving technologies such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and the internet, including social media platforms for recruitment and incitement to commit terrorist acts, as well as for the financing, planning, and preparation of terrorist activities. We welcome the focused discussions on these themes at the Quad Counter-Terrorism Policy Meeting and tabletop exercise hosted by Australia in October 2022. We are pleased to announce the establishment of the Quad Working Group on Counterterrorism, which will explore cooperation amongst the Quad, and with Indo-Pacific partners, to counter new and emerging forms of terrorism, radicalization to violence, and violent extremism. We look forward to its first meeting in the United States in 2023 to continue our discussions on this global issue.  

Myanmar

We strongly emphasize the importance of maintaining peace, stability, and prosperity and express our deep concern at the deteriorating situation in Myanmar. In this regard, we emphasize the need for complete cessation of violence, the release of all those arbitrarily detained, resolution of issues through dialogue, unhindered humanitarian access, and transition to an inclusive, federal democratic system in Myanmar. Towards this, we reaffirm our consistent support to the ASEAN-led efforts, including the work of the ASEAN Chair and Office of the Special Envoy, and call for the full implementation of ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus. We also encourage the international community to work together in a pragmatic and constructive way towards resolving the crisis in Myanmar.  

North Korea

We condemn North Korea’s destabilizing ballistic missile launches, including the launch of yet another Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) on February 18, 2023, in violation of UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). We reaffirm our commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and urge North Korea to comply with its obligations under UNSCRs. We reconfirm the necessity of immediate resolution of the abductions issue. We stress the importance of addressing proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies related to North Korea in the region and beyond.  

Ukraine

We continued to discuss our responses to the conflict in Ukraine and the immense human suffering it is causing, and concurred that the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is inadmissible. We underscored the need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter. We emphasized that the rules-based international order must respect sovereignty, territorial integrity, transparency, and peaceful resolution of disputes.  

Final Thoughts

We welcome the announcement of the first class of Quad Fellows, who will begin their academic pursuits in the United States in August 2023. We look forward to the next Quad Leaders’ Summit being hosted by Australia this year. We will work closely to align and complement the Quad’s agenda with Japan’s Presidency of the G7, India’s Presidency of the G20, and the United States’ APEC host year in 2023. We will continue to meet regularly to deliver concrete benefits and serve as a force for good, deepening practical and positive cooperation for the benefit of the Indo-Pacific region.   Sources: THX News & US Dept. of State. Read the full article