Why NZ should consider joining Aukus Pillar 2

Thursday, 27 June 2024

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (left,), US President Joe Biden, and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak arrive for a press conference at the inaugural Aukus summit in March, 2023.

Louisa Wall and Simon O'Connor are former co-chairs of the Inter-parliamentary Alliance on China; Louisa Wall was a Labour MP from 2008 to 2022, and Simon O'Connor was National’s MP for Tāmaki until 2023.

OPINION: In recent discussions surrounding New Zealand’s foreign policy, there has been considerable debate about the country’s stance on international military alliances, particularly in light of the Aukus partnership.

Aukus, comprising Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, has garnered attention for its strategic implications in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly concerning China’s growing influence and military capabilities.

Speaking from the Phillipines, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says New Zealand still has an interest in being involved in the security partnership.

Opposition to New Zealand’s involvement in Aukus has been vocal, citing concerns about maintaining an independent foreign policy and avoiding entanglements in potentially antagonistic alliances against China. However, amidst these discussions, there remains a compelling argument for New Zealand to seriously consider participating in Aukus Pillar 2 – focused on enhancing joint capabilities and interoperability among member nations.

Pillar 2 represents a unique opportunity for New Zealand to deepen its defence collaboration with key allies, leveraging advanced technologies and expertise in critical areas such as cyber-capabilities, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technologies, and undersea capabilities. These technologies are not only crucial for maintaining military readiness, but also for safeguarding against emerging threats in an increasingly contested geopolitical landscape.

Technologically, Aukus member nations are at the forefront of innovation. Australia, the UK, and the US have made substantial investments in AI and quantum computing, technologies that offer unprecedented opportunities to enhance decision-making processes, optimise defence operations, and mitigate risks associated with modern warfare. For New Zealand, which values its autonomy and non-nuclear stance, participating in Pillar 2 does not necessitate compromising these principles. Instead, it presents an avenue to collaborate selectively in areas where technological advancements can complement and strengthen existing defence capabilities.

Economically, New Zealand stands to benefit from enhanced trade relationships and technological exchanges within the Aukus framework. The partnership could open doors to joint research and development initiatives, facilitating innovation and economic growth in high-tech sectors crucial for national prosperity.

Moreover, by aligning with Aukus members on defence technologies, New Zealand could attract investment and expertise that enhances its own technological base, stimulating domestic industries and creating high-value jobs.

From a security standpoint, participating in Pillar 2 would improve New Zealand’s interoperability with allies during joint military exercises and operations. This interoperability is essential for effective co-ordination in responding to regional crises, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief efforts, thereby reinforcing New Zealand’s commitment to regional stability and security. Strengthening defence ties with Australia, the UK, and the US would also bolster New Zealand’s capacity to participate meaningfully in multi-lateral security operations, enhancing its influence in regional security architectures.

While concerns about antagonising China persist, it is essential to recognise that Aukus Pillar 2 is primarily about defensive capabilities and regional deterrence rather than provocation. By aligning with allies in technological innovation and defence preparedness, New Zealand can contribute to a collective security framework that upholds international norms and safeguards regional interests.

Moreover, participation in Pillar 2 could serve as a deterrent against potential adversaries, thereby enhancing regional stability and reducing the likelihood of military conflict.

New Zealand has a long-standing commitment to international law, human rights, and multilateralism. By joining Pillar 2, New Zealand would reinforce these commitments while advancing its strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Former MPs Louisa Wall (Labour) and Simon O'Connor (National) were part of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China.

Importantly, New Zealand’s participation could help shape the development of international norms and regulations governing emerging technologies, ensuring that advancements in AI, quantum computing, and other critical areas are used responsibly and transparently.

In conclusion, the decision for New Zealand to participate in Aukus Pillar 2 warrants careful consideration and balanced deliberation.

While maintaining an independent foreign policy remains paramount, integrating with like-minded allies in defence technology and capabilities offers strategic advantages that cannot be overlooked. New Zealand must assess its national interests, security imperatives, and economic opportunities within the context of evolving geopolitical dynamics.

By actively engaging in discussions surrounding Pillar 2, New Zealand can position itself as a pro-active contributor to regional stability while safeguarding its sovereignty and long-term strategic interests.

As discussions continue both domestically and internationally, it is crucial for policy-makers and stakeholders in New Zealand to weigh the potential benefits and risks associated with Pillar 2, ensuring that decisions align with the nation’s values, security priorities, and commitment to global peace.