Quad foreign ministers reaffirm Indo-Pacific priorities

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar joined his counterparts from the United States, Australia, and Japan in Washington DC for the first Quad foreign ministers’ meeting under the newly inaugurated Trump administration. The dialogue underscored the Quad’s priority in the foreign policies of its member nations.

Jaishankar highlighted the wide-ranging discussions that addressed strategies to ensure a stable and inclusive Indo-Pacific. The talks focused on intensifying collaboration, broadening agendas, and tackling shared challenges in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

In a statement, the ministers reiterated their shared conviction to uphold the rule of law, sovereignty, and democratic values, alongside resisting unilateral efforts to disrupt the regional balance. They stressed that maintaining peace, stability, and security in all domains, including maritime, is vital for the region’s development.

The group also committed to enhancing economic and technology security, particularly safeguarding supply chains and critical infrastructure. Recognising the significance of regional collaboration, the ministers pledged regular meetings to ensure progress ahead of the leaders’ summit, which India will host later this year.

As a diplomatic partnership, the Quad remains steadfast in promoting an inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, particularly in light of Beijing’s growing assertiveness in the South China Sea. The partnership also aims to advance cybersecurity cooperation, crucial for protecting undersea cables and critical regional infrastructure.

The Quad has consistently demonstrated its relevance through its coordinated efforts, reaffirming its role in stabilising Indo-Pacific forces.

Source: Times of India