The Quad sent a clear message to China on Monday, reasserting its unwavering dedication to a free and open Indo-Pacific. It pledged to strive for a region where no nation should ‘dominate’ others and every state is free from all forms of coercion.
The meeting, attended by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, and Australia’s Penny Wong, sent a clear message to China without directly naming the country.
The ministers expressed serious concerns over the situation in the East and South China Seas, strongly opposing any unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion. They emphasized the importance of a region where no country dominates others and each state is free from coercion in all its forms.
The joint statement highlighted the Quad’s commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, respecting human rights, democratic values, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of nations. The ministers also addressed the increasing Chinese manoeuvres in the South China Sea, particularly the “dangerous use” of coast guard and maritime militia vessels.
China has accused the Quad nations, including the US and India, of artificially creating tension and inciting confrontation in order to contain the development of other countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
In addition to regional security, the Quad ministers unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism, including cross-border terrorism. They specifically mentioned the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks, calling for the perpetrators to be brought to justice without delay.
The meeting underscored the Quad’s role in promoting stability, prosperity, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, while also addressing broader global security concerns.
