In an era where the centre of gravity for global development is shifting eastward, the time is ripe to contemplate the formation of an Asian Union. The concept, akin to the European Union, could unite the continent under a shared banner of peace, harmony, and sustainable progress.
A few years ago, when I was invited to address the inauguration of the One Asia Foundation project for world peace, it struck me that true unity must extend beyond mere preaching peace. It should encompass economic development that leaves no one behind and fosters preservation of Asia’s rich cultural, philosophical, and spiritual heritage – the timeless ‘Wisdom of the Orient’ that has served as a global repository for millennia together.
The foundation of the proposed Asian Union should rest on a sturdy tripod of peace, harmony, and development. By coming together, Asian nations stand to gain immensely, fostering accelerated economic development and a world of blissful and harmonious living on this shared planet. This union would promote free movement of goods and services, accelerate development of cutting-edge science and technologies, facilitate technology transfers, and enable the continent to achieve net-zero emissions target well before 2050. Such ambitions are not only feasible but imperative, given the booming economies of India, China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Collaborative growth
India and China, representing over a third of the world’s population, could forge an alliance as formidable pillars of this Asian Union and spearhead the initiative, driving collaborative growth that benefits all. With Japan, the brightest star of the East for technology advancement, the concept will get strong traction. Russia, too, must recognise that isolated approaches, like relying solely on Beijing, offer no lasting solution for regional stability. Instead, embracing a broader Asian alliance would harness the continent’s collective faith and commitment to One Asia.
India, with its democratic ethos and innovative spirit, should take the lead in establishing this vital Asian Union. Leaders across Asia must convene to debate and discuss the tangible advantages of working in unison, transforming potential into reality.
I recall my time as a research scholar at the University of Birmingham in late 1970s, where I witnessed the debate on whether or not to be part of the European Union and later witnessed the transformative power of the European Union firsthand. Emerging from the ashes of conflict in the 1970s, the European Commission, and later EU, have evolved into a beacon of progress. Its member states have achieved remarkable economic growth and scored high in happiness index.
Blissful future
In India, we all cherish our languages, cultures, cuisines, and local affiliations, yet, in today’s interconnected world, these elements should blend into a melting pot to create a bright and blissful future for humanity. Global challenges like climate change, economic inequality, and geopolitical tensions demand collective action. The EU’s success demonstrates that nations can retain their identities while pursuing a common future.
The proposed Asian Union will possess unique advantages that could propel it beyond EU’s achievements. With a vast population, cutting-edge science, and advanced technologies, the continent is poised for a quantum leap in peace and harmony; not just internally, but across borders. Operating in mission mode, the Asian Union can address shared issues with agility and purpose.
Ancient wisdom
The ‘One Asia’ vision also aligns with the ancient wisdom of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family). By realising an Asian Union, the East, home to the largest portion of humanity, can play a pivotal role in both sustainable development and global peacekeeping. As time progresses, this could inspire further integration: alongside African Union and EU, forming a global tripod of a continental alliance. The momentum is building. Asia’s economic surge provides perfect backdrop for this bold endeavour. By prioritising the tripod of peace, harmony, and development, we can create a blissful bridge to a sustainable world. Let India and its neighbours seize this moment, turning aspiration into action!
