A CASE FOR ENHANCING THE FRANCO-AUSTRALIAN ALLIANCE IN THE INDO-PACIFIC

Edward  McCann

doi:10.54690/margallapapers.28.1.240

Authors

Edward McCann Australian Army Officer currently posted to Headquarters Forces Command, Sydney.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54690/margallapapers.28.1.240

Keywords:

Indo-Pacific Region, US-China Rivalry, Geostrategic Partnerships, Franco-Australian Alliance

Abstract

In a contested Indo-Pacific region with a rising and assertive China militarily and economically, Australia must look beyond the US as the sole guarantor of its security. Australia realises the importance of maintaining the US–Australia alliance, but it must also seek other like-minded nations to ensure peace and prosperity in the region. The potential development of an enhanced Franco-Australian partnership in the Indo-Pacific presents a promising alliance against the backdrop of heightened US-China rivalry, concerns over maritime security, challenges to sovereignty and economic prosperity. Australia, as a small to medium nation in the South Pacific, must develop and expand its geostrategic partnerships. As Australia seeks to grow, expand or reinforce existing partnerships within a contested and competitive environment, the potential benefits of an enhanced Franco-Australian alliance in the Indo-Pacific are significant and worthy of careful consideration.

Bibliography Entry

McCann, Edward. 2024. "A Case for Enhancing the Franco-Australian Alliance in the Indo-Pacific." Margalla Papers 28 (1): 58-74.

Author Biography

Edward McCann, Australian Army Officer currently posted to Headquarters Forces Command, Sydney.

Colonel Edward McCann is an Australian Army Officer currently posted to Headquarters Forces Command, Sydney. He is a former student of the National Defence University, Islamabad, where he completed his master’s degree along with the National Security and War Course.