Quad Marks 20 Years of Cooperation with Renewed Commitment to Indo-Pacific Stability

Foreign ministers from India, the US, Japan, and Australia pledge to address regional challenges and uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Quad was originally formed in 2004 as a response to the Indian Ocean tsunami, evolving into a strategic partnership addressing regional challenges over the past two decades.
A joint statement reaffirmed the Quad’s vision for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, emphasizing collaboration in areas like maritime security, counterterrorism, and emerging technologies.
The Quad highlighted its ongoing support for ASEAN’s centrality, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association as key regional institutions.
Member nations underscored their commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, citing recent efforts to improve disaster preparedness and response across the region.
The grouping is seen as a counterbalance to China's increasing influence in the Indo-Pacific, with a focus on offering alternatives to initiatives like the Belt and Road.