The Foreign Ministers of the Quad nations—India, the United States, Australia, and Japan—met in Washington D.C. discussed strategies for enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The meeting, which took place shortly after the inauguration of the Trump Administration, underscores the importance of the Quad in the foreign policy agendas of its member states.
Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to U.S. Secretary Marco Rubio for hosting the meeting, and acknowledged the participation of Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya. The discussions were described as “wide-ranging,” focusing on various aspects of ensuring a free, open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
The ministers emphasized the need for a broader perspective in their collaborative efforts, aiming to deepen the Quad’s agenda and intensify cooperation among the four nations. Dr. Jaishankar highlighted that the meeting sends a strong message about the Quad’s commitment to being a stabilizing force in an increasingly uncertain and volatile global landscape.
A joint statement issued after the meeting reaffirmed the Quad nations’ dedication to upholding democratic values, the rule of law, and the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity in the Indo-Pacific. The ministers collectively condemned any unilateral actions that seek to alter the status quo through force or coercion, reflecting a unified stance against aggressive maneuvers in the region.
The Quad ministers also addressed the growing threats to regional maritime, economic, and technological security. They committed to promoting reliable and resilient supply chains, recognizing the importance of economic stability in the face of rising challenges. The discussions laid the groundwork for future collaboration, with the ministers expressing their eagerness to advance the Quad’s initiatives in the coming months.
Looking ahead, the Quad nations plan to meet regularly as they prepare for the next Quad Leaders’ Summit, which will be hosted by India. This ongoing dialogue is expected to further solidify the Quad’s role as a key player in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the Quad’s commitment to collective action and shared values remains a cornerstone of its strategy to address the challenges facing the Indo-Pacific. The meeting in Washington D.C. marks a pivotal moment in reinforcing the Quad’s mission and enhancing cooperation among its member states.
