NEW CALEDONIA: A CRUCIAL MARITIME KEYSTONE IN THE INDO-PACIFIC GEOPOLITICAL LANDSCAPE -TOWARDS A CONCERTED EFFORT?

Author: Christian Ilcus

ABSTRACT

This paper examines the intricate interplay between France’s New Caledonia issue and the EU’s strategic recalibration in the Asian region, aiming to address the implications of these dynamics on regional stability and international relations. The document adopts a multifaceted approach, integrating in-depth analysis of geopolitical developments, policy frameworks, and historical contexts related to France’s New Caledonia and the EU’s evolving Asia strategy under the emerging multipolar global order. Methodologically, it draws on explorative case-study and AI analysis, which is a digital method retrieving information stored digitally towards knowledge maps on human prompts. It synthesises insights from scholarly works, official publications, and geopolitical analyses to understand the subject matter comprehensively. The analysis reveals the complex nexus between France’s New Caledonia challenges and the EU’s strategic realignment in Asia at the nexus of geoeconomics and geopolitics during a power transition. It underscores the need for nuanced diplomatic manoeuvres, sustainable development initiatives, and strategic partnerships to navigate the intricacies of these issues effectively. The overall conclusion is that adopting a cohesive and adaptive approach to address France’s New Caledonia concerns within the broader context of the EU’s Asia strategy is imperative. It emphasizes the significance of fostering regional stability, sustainable development, and collaborative engagement to address the multifaceted challenges at hand. This tunes in with the broader goals of international cooperation and peaceful coexistence.

Keywords: New Caledonia Conflict-Solution, Indo-Pacific, Overseas Territories, Blue Ocean Continent Strategy, Global EU Pacific Islands Policy.

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