The Transatlantic Alliance Under Pressure: A Test of Resilience
KUALA LUMPUR, March 7 (Bernama) – The longstanding transatlantic alliance between the United States and the European Union (EU) is facing a critical test as recent policy shifts and diplomatic tensions increasingly challenge the foundations of this historic partnership.
A Major Test of Resilience
Professor of ASEAN Studies at the Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Prof. Dr. Phar Kim Beng, described the current challenges facing the transatlantic alliance as "unparalleled," signaling a major test of its resilience and a potential turning point in the decades-long partnership.
"In terms of historical upheaval, what we are witnessing right now is almost unprecedented because the transatlantic relationship between the United States and the EU has always been strong since 1945, the end of World War II," he said. "The relationship has never been tested to the extent that it is now experiencing. So, in terms of the stress that is now being imposed on the transatlantic relationship, the world order is not unstable within that pillar."
Asia’s Stable Security Arrangements
While the transatlantic alliance faces uncertainty, Asia presents a contrasting picture with its stable security arrangements. Phar highlighted the complex interplay of diplomacy, security, and leadership transitions in shaping international relations, emphasizing how shifting power dynamics will impact global stability.
"From the standpoint of Asia, our system of security assurances is still quite stable to the degree that there are no radical siege acts or anything totally unexpected from the White House," he said.
US Embassies and Diplomatic Relationships
Meanwhile, Phar also commented on the operational dynamics of US embassies worldwide, noting that many still have political appointees from previous administrations. He emphasized that US embassies play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining diplomatic relationships, acting as key instruments of American foreign policy.
"The effectiveness of these embassies depends on the authority granted by Trump and directives from entities such as the National Security Council and the State Department," he said. "There are many American embassies, some specifically, that have not gone through proper housekeeping. In other words, there are political appointees from the previous administration of President Joe Biden. Whether the embassies can flex their muscles or not depends on the power and authority given by President Trump and, in the national spirit, the council, or even the State Department, to do their bidding in locations around the world."
Conclusion
The transatlantic alliance is facing unprecedented challenges, and its resilience will be tested in the coming period. The stability of Asia’s security arrangements presents a contrasting picture, but the shifting power dynamics in the global landscape will have a significant impact on international relations.
FAQs
Q: What are the current challenges facing the transatlantic alliance?
A: The alliance is facing unprecedented challenges, including policy shifts and diplomatic tensions.
Q: How does Asia’s security arrangement differ from that of the EU and NATO?
A: Asia’s security arrangements are characterized by distinct defence arrangements differing from those of the EU and NATO.
Q: How do US embassies play a role in shaping and maintaining diplomatic relationships?
A: US embassies play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining diplomatic relationships, acting as key instruments of American foreign policy. Their effectiveness depends on the authority granted by the President and directives from entities such as the National Security Council and the State Department.