Thread by @raisinadialogue

We are LIVE Tweeting Crimson Tide, Blue Geometries with Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, France (@francediplo_en), Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia ( @dfat), Minister for External Affairs, India (@MEAIndia) in conversation with @samirsaran #Raisina2021

.@samirsaran to @francediplo: The Indo-Pacific is under-institutionalised. What in your opinion is the role of a plurilateral arrangement -- such as the one between India, Australia and France -- in addressing this gap? #Raisina2021

.@francediplo: We see each other in institutional formats such as the IORA, which is very much in charge of maritime security. Similarly, we are cooperating in other dedicated formats catering to issues like illegal fishing and financing of terrorism. #Raisina2021

.@francediplo: So, there are different networks that add to our willingness to cooperate. In this matter we have a very pragmatic approach. When we talk about setting up an inclusive area of cooperation, I am not sure we should always talk about very complex matters. #Raisina2021

.@samirsaran to @dfat: Can plurilateral dialogues such as this one between India, France, Australia create tangible change on the ground? Does Australia have material objectives for this partnership? #Raisina2021

.@dfat: Australia has a very practical approach. When we talk about the circumstance we find ourselves in now -- Our focus is primarily on #COVID19 pandemic response. #Raisina2021

.@dfat: In terms of maritime safety and security, this partnership between Australia, France and India hones sound precedents of working together. We also share a focus on sustainability of the oceans, resilience to natural disasters and climate change. #Raisina2021

.@dfat: #COVID19 has driven the need for responsiveness, flexibility and preparedness. This has pushed us to engage in open discussions over what is possible and what we can practically do. #Raisina2021

.@MEAIndia: We need plurilateralism because multilateralism is not delivering the way it used to. That is the case also with the formal treaty-based structures. The power of individual nations and bilateral agreements is also weaker than it used to be. #Raisina2021

.@MEAIndia: There is a vacuum which has emerged, wherein multilateralism has fallen short. So the world is moving towards groups of countries which are keen on working together #Raisina2021

.@MEAIndia: With such balancing in the multipolar world, even the most significant power -- the United States, is willing to work with others in the plurilateral format. #Raisina2021

.@MEAIndia: I think the Indo-Pacific refers to a seamless expanse, which has been historically present in the form of Indian-Arab economic, trading, cultural influences from ASEAN nations like Vietnam and the east coast of China. #Raisina2021

.@MEAIndia: .@DrSJaishankar: The Indo-Pacific construct reflects the more contemporary world. It is actually overcoming the Cold War, not reinforcing it. #Raisina2021

.@MEAIndia: On the QUAD, we have focused on 10 areas - Vaccine collaboration, Higher education, Student mobility, Climate action, Emerging technology, Resilient supply-chains, Semiconductors, Countering disinformation, Counter-terrorism and Maritime security. #Raisina2021

.@dfat: The tragic situation in Myanmar is very challenging for our friends who have been working so hard for democratic transition there. We have been very clear from Australia's perspective to acknowledge importance of working with ASEAN on identifying solution #Raisina2021

.@dfat: #ASEAN is key to our #IndoPacific region, and its centrality is fundamental to Australia's approach. #Raisina2021

.@MEAIndia: When it comes to Myanmar, the democratic countries have a common position. But owing to our location and a common border, we also have a unique position. We continue to engage with all parties in Myanmar, and like Australia we are also in regular touch with ASEAN.

.@francediplo: India, France and Australia share the willingness to work together, not simply because we get along well or because we share some common interests and concerns. We are democracies and we comply with the rule of law. #Raisina2021