Quad's Firm Stand for a Free Indo-Pacific

The Quad nations—India, the US, Japan, and Australia—reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, emphasizing that no country should dominate others and that competition should be managed responsibly. The ministers stressed the importance of upholding democratic values, human rights, and sovereignty, particularly against a backdrop of increased Chinese military activity.

India and other Quad member nations on Monday reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, underscoring that no country should dominate others and advocating for responsible competition. This move is widely interpreted as a direct message to China.

The foreign ministers from the Quad countries emphasized the importance of maintaining a rules-based international order that respects freedom, human rights, democratic values, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Key attendees of the meeting included External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, and Australia's Penny Wong.

The ministers collectively emphasized the role of all countries in contributing to regional peace, stability, and prosperity. They highlighted the need for a region where no country is dominated or coerced, and competition is managed responsibly. Furthermore, the Quad committed to fostering a prosperous Indo-Pacific amidst growing Chinese military activities in the area.

(With inputs from agencies.)