The EU’s Security Strategy in the Indo-Pacific: Sri Lanka’s Perception and Concerns

European powers are increasingly re-engaging with Indo-Pacific geopolitics, marked by the EU’s 2021 Strategy for Cooperation in the region, focusing on security, defense, and economic collaboration. This renewed interest underscores Europe’s evolving role as a security actor in the Indo-Pacific. Sri Lanka, with its historical ties to European powers, faces a complex dynamic in responding to this shift. While the EU’s emphasis on stability and a rule-based order aligns with Sri Lanka’s strategic interests, concerns persist regarding potential EU interventions in internal security and the impact on Sri Lanka's relations with China. This paper examines these nuances and explores the implications for EU-Sri Lanka cooperation.