Munich: Asia-Pacific and Western officials discussed shared security challenges linking Europe and the Indo-Pacific at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday.

According to Anadolu Agency, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi outlined three key concerns: growing turbulence in the international order; a strong sense of urgency over the linked security of the Euro-Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific; and cooperation as the cornerstone of Japan's alliance with the US, as well as Tokyo's responsibility to deter and repel any aggression. Motegi emphasized Japan's commitment to contributing to global stability and peace while expressing concern over the cooperation among China, Russia, and North Korea, and its impact on regional security.

Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel highlighted the similarities between Europe and the Indo-Pacific across domains such as defense and economy. He noted that cyberspace, hybrid threats, economic dependencies, and export control measures affect both regions similarly, underscoring the need for global collaboration in a turbulent world.

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles addressed the power-centered nature of global relations and stressed the importance of burden-sharing. He mentioned China's significant military buildup without strategic reassurance and emphasized collaboration with the US and other partners like Japan to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins pointed out the current dangers facing the world and urged for greater collective awareness and significant improvements in global strategies. She stressed the interconnected nature of global events, highlighting the mutual impact of regional occurrences.

US Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby emphasized the importance of dialogue over conflict, advocating for continuous communication even amidst crises in multiple theaters.