The foreign ministers of the Quad countries—India, the US, Japan, and Australia—celebrated the 20th anniversary of their partnership, emphasizing their continued commitment to regional cooperation in addressing emerging challenges. The group, initially formed in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, has since grown into a robust platform aimed at fostering peace, security, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific.
In a joint statement, the ministers highlighted their shared vision for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, underpinned by effective regional institutions. They underscored the Quad’s evolution from an emergency response initiative into a comprehensive partnership that now tackles diverse issues, from climate change and public health to counterterrorism and maritime security.
The Quad has also focused on enhancing maritime domain awareness, critical and emerging technologies, and cybersecurity. The ministers stressed their ongoing efforts to bolster quality infrastructure and promote education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across the region.
While the Quad members have emphasized inclusivity, their efforts also counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific. The grouping provides an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, offering countries in the region options that avoid the risks of debt dependency.
Since its formalization as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, the Quad has met at various levels, with leaders convening annually since 2021. The foreign ministers reiterated their unwavering support for ASEAN’s central role in regional affairs and the Pacific Islands Forum. They also reaffirmed their commitment to humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and preparedness, drawing from their collective experience in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami.
As the Quad continues to expand its collaborative efforts, the ministers reaffirmed their shared goal of ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, rooted in peace, stability, and respect for regional sovereignty.
