The foreign ministers of the Quad nations—India, Australia, Japan, and the United States—issued a joint statement reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific where sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democratic values are upheld.
Meeting in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, the Quad leaders strongly opposed any unilateral actions aimed at altering the status quo through force or coercion. The statement emphasized their dedication to international law, economic opportunity, and stability across all domains, including the maritime domain.
“We, the Secretary of State of the United States and the Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan, reaffirm our shared commitment to strengthening a Free and Open Indo-Pacific where the rule of law, democratic values, sovereignty, and territorial integrity are upheld and defended,” the joint statement declared.
The meeting, hosted by newly sworn-in U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, included India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Japan’s Takeshi Iwaya, and Australia’s Penny Wong. It marked a significant step in advancing the Quad’s mission of regional security and cooperation.
The Quad also emphasized strengthening regional maritime, economic, and technology security in response to rising global challenges. Additionally, the nations committed to building reliable and resilient supply chains to enhance regional stability.
The joint statement announced preparations for the next Quad Leaders’ Summit, which will be hosted by India. “We look forward to advancing the work of the Quad in the coming months and will meet together regularly as we prepare for the next Quad Leaders’ Summit hosted by India,” it said.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts on the productive discussions. “Attended a productive Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting today in Washington DC. Thank @secrubio for hosting us and FMs @SenatorWong & Takeshi Iwaya for their participation. Significant that the Quad FMM took place within hours of the inauguration of the Trump Administration,” he wrote.
The meeting highlighted the Quad’s priority in the foreign policies of its member states. “Our wide-ranging discussions addressed different dimensions of ensuring a free, open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” Jaishankar added.
He also emphasized the need for deeper collaboration within the Quad. “Agreed on the importance of thinking bigger, deepening the agenda, and intensifying our collaboration. The meeting today sends a clear message that in an uncertain and volatile world, the Quad will continue to be a force for global good,” he stated.
The Quad is a diplomatic partnership committed to fostering an inclusive and resilient Indo-Pacific region, focusing on economic growth, security, and stability. This meeting comes as the nations collectively work to address global challenges and promote peace and prosperity in the region.
