Evolution of the UK Tilt to the Indo-Pacific Region

Abstract

The article explores the conceptual foundations of the UK “tilt to the Indo-Pacific”, its evolution and the transformation of the strategic narrative ensued therefrom as it is impacted by a number of factors from both outside and within. The author notes that the flagship proposal of the Conservative cabinet for indivisible Euro-Atlantic and IndoPacific security is twofold: to extrapolate the principles of transatlantic security to the new region, and to present Britain in the emerging multipolarity in a new ambitious role as a link between two mega-spaces. It is highlighted the continuity of the foreign policy approach of the new Labor government, which, based on the conceptual framework of the Conservative cabinet, seeks to strengthen London’s position in the Indo-Pacific. It is shown that the strategy of the Conservative government in the Indo-Pacific is limited not only by resource scarcity but also by heated internal debates as to an ultimate goal of its presence in the region (the degree of involvement in the economic and defense ecosystem), as well as the nature of future relations with China. Moreover, London’s position is also weakened by the contradictory attitude of regional actors towards the UK’s role in the region, as well as broad inter-party discussions on adjusting the foreign policy strategy in the region.