The United States is also focusing more on the Indo-Pacific region. This means that the Netherlands and Europe must take more responsibility. They must do this for their own security and for a stronger defense industry. The American Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth was positive about the steps Europe is taking. He urged the Indo-Pacific to do the same.

Brekelmans spoke during the conference about the global impact of regional conflicts. He also addressed the emergence of new threats. He focused on nuclear threats and artificial intelligence (AI). “Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons, but then Russia violated every agreement. This sent the message that openness and disarmament do not pay off, while they are actually necessary. In exchange for military support, Russia now shares knowledge and technology with North Korea. China, Russia, and North Korea are also not transparent about nuclear weapons. These are threats that European, American, and Asian partners must address together for our collective security.”

The minister also pointed to the non-proliferation treaty as an important pillar of international security. Trust and mutual agreements are essential here. “Nuclear weapons in the wrong hands, AI without control, and great powers ignoring treaties. This threatens us globally. Therefore, I call for more realism, openness, and control.”

Eichelsheim emphasized the importance of the Indo-Pacific for the Netherlands. “Free passage in this region is crucial for our economic interests. In addition to focusing on security in Europe, regular military presence in the Asian region is also important. Therefore, we ensure maritime presence and participate in international exercises. We also continuously provide personnel to the United Nations Command in South Korea.”

Even in Japan, the efforts of the Netherlands and cooperation with strategic partners are recognized. Therefore, Eichelsheim received the Defence Cooperation Decoration from his Japanese counterpart, General Yoshida Yoshihide.