Envisioning an Asian Union: A Tripod of Peace, Harmony, and Development

In an era where the center of gravity for global development is shifting decisively eastward, the time is ripe to contemplate the formation of an Asian Union. This visionary concept, akin to the European Union, could unite the continent under a shared banner of peace, harmony, and sustainable progress.

True Peace needs to go beyond Tranquility: 

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 and attaining tranquility. 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 Asian Union – Tripod of Peace, Harmony and Development:

The foundation of the proposed Asian Union should rest on a sturdy tripod: peace, harmony, and development. By coming together, Asian nations stand to gain immense benefits, fostering accelerated economic development and a world of blissful and harmonious living on our shared planet, Mother Earth. This union would promote the 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, the target pledged at COP29. Such ambitions are not only feasible but imperative, given the booming economies of India, China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Driving Collaborative Growth:

India and China representing over a third of the world’s population could forge their alliance as formidable pillars of this Asian Union and   spearhead the initiative, driving collaborative growth that benefits all. With Japan, the brighest star of the East for technology advancement, the concept will get strong traction. Russia, too, must recognize 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, home to over 50%  of World population deeply rooted in principles of peace and development since time immemorial.

India to Take Lead:

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. Drawing from personal experience, 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 and sustainable development, proving that unity can transcend historical divisions.

In India, we all cherish our languages, cultures, cuisines, and local affiliations; our provinces and nations hold deep emotional ties. Yet, in today’s interconnected world, these elements should blend into a melting pot to create a bright and blissful future for humanity at large.  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.

One Asia Vision goes beyond Economic Development:

Asian Union possesses unique advantages that could propel it beyond the 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. We must set aside political differences, forging alliances based on mutual respect and cooperation. Operating in mission mode, Asian Union can address shared issues with agility and purpose. 

One Asia vision aligns with ancient wisdom, such as the in the Vedic proclamation of universal brotherhood: “Vasudhaiva  Kutumbakam” (the world is one family). By realizing 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: an African Union emerging alongside the EU, forming a global tripod of continental alliances. 

In summation, the momentum is building. Asia’s economic surge provides the perfect backdrop for this bold endeavor. By prioritizing 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. The benefits of Asian Union like accelerated economic prosperity, cultural enrichment, and environmental stewardship will echo far beyond our borders, ensuring a harmonious legacy for the world humanity.

The Author Prof PB Sharma, is an eminent academician, the Founder Vice Chancellor of DTU and past Presidents of AIU, currently is the Vice Chancellor of Amity University Gurugram.