The United Kingdom has pledged 25 million pounds to “strengthen regional resilience” to combat ongoing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson made the announcement during a virtual meeting with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Feb. 17, where both leaders pledged to support the rules-based international order and respect the “sovereign rights of all nations.” Both leaders welcomed progress with AUKUS citing the signing of the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information Agreement on Feb. 8, which opened the door for the UK and United States to share naval propulsion information with Australia. “Leaders further welcomed the presence in Australia of UK and U.S. officials to provide expert advice on the many facets of nuclear stewardship needed to operate a nuclear-powered submarine capability,” the joint statement said. Johnson and Morrison said officials from all three countries were also meeting in London to discuss collaboration on cyber, …