India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has underscored the crucial role of the Quad nations in safeguarding the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing that their collaboration is essential for maintaining its freedom, openness, stability, and security. During his opening statement at the Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting in Tokyo, Jaishankar asserted that the grouping is here to stay and grow, highlighting the shared commitment of the Quad nations to global good.
Jaishankar acknowledged the complexities of the current global landscape, stating that ensuring global economic growth while mitigating risks is a significant challenge. He emphasized the importance of resilient supply chains and transparent digital partnerships. Moreover, he recognized the transformative power of technology and its impact on how we live, think, and act, suggesting that we are witnessing a re-globalization.
The External Affairs Minister stressed that safeguarding the international system from disruptions, both man-made and natural, requires collective effort. He further emphasized that the Quad nations, as political democracies, pluralistic societies, and market economies, have a responsibility to uphold a rules-based order. Jaishankar asserted that only through collaboration can the Indo-Pacific region remain free, open, stable, secure, and prosperous, underscoring the resonance of the Quad’s commitment to global good beyond the region.
He advocated for strengthening political understanding, expanding economic partnerships, fostering technological collaborations, and intensifying people-to-people connections among the Quad nations. Jaishankar concluded by stating that the meeting should send a clear message that the Quad is here to stay, to work together, and to grow.
The Quad, formally established in November 2017, comprises India, Japan, the US, and Australia. Its primary objective is to develop a strategy for safeguarding critical sea routes in the Indo-Pacific region from external influences. The South China Sea, a key point of contention, is situated at the crossroads of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. China claims ownership over most of the South China Sea, while the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan have competing claims.
