In a clear message to China, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Sunday that the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is not a group targeting any particular nation. Instead, he emphasized its focus on upholding a rules-based international order and respecting national sovereignty.
Speaking at the Quad summit hosted by President Joe Biden in the United States, Modi declared, “Free, open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific is our priority.” He further clarified, “We are not against anyone. We all support a rules-based international order, respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful resolution of all issues.”
This statement comes amidst heightened tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, primarily due to China’s assertive territorial claims in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. China’s claims over the entire South China Sea are contested by Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei, and Taiwan.
Modi asserted that the Quad’s presence is enduring and its purpose is to assist, partner, and complement existing efforts. “Our message is clear — Quad is here to stay, to assist, to partner and to complement,” he stated, highlighting the group’s collaborative initiatives in areas such as health security, critical and emerging technologies, climate change, and capacity building.
Recognizing the current global landscape marked by tensions and challenges, Modi underscored the significance of the Quad’s collaboration, stating, “At such a time, the working together of Quad with its democratic values is significant for the entire human race.”
The summit also served as a farewell for President Biden, who is nearing the end of his term. Expressing his appreciation for the Quad’s commitment and leadership, Modi said, “I thank you for your steadfast commitment, your leadership, and your contributions to the Quad.”
Looking ahead, Modi confirmed India’s readiness to host the Quad Summit in 2025. This year’s summit was originally scheduled to take place in India but was shifted to the United States at President Biden’s request.
The Quad, comprising the US, Japan, India, and Australia, was formally established in 2017 as a response to China’s increasingly assertive actions in the Indo-Pacific region. It advocates for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, a stance that China views as an attempt to contain its rise.
