Washington, Jan 22, 2025: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar participated in a productive Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Washington on Tuesday, just a day after the swearing-in of the Trump administration. The discussions focused on expanding the Quad’s agenda and strengthening collaboration among member nations.
The meeting was hosted by the newly appointed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and attended by Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, and EAM S Jaishankar.
A joint statement released by the Quad members emphasized their commitment to advancing the Quad’s objectives in the coming months, with plans to convene regularly and prepare for the next Quad Leaders’ Summit, to be hosted by India.
EAM Jaishankar, in a post on X, highlighted the strategic timing of the meeting, noting that it underscored the priority the Quad holds in the foreign policy of its member nations.
“Participated in a constructive Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting today in Washington. Grateful to @secrubio for hosting and my counterparts @SenatorWong & Takeshi Iwaya for their valuable contributions.
“The meeting’s timing, just hours after the inauguration of the Trump Administration, reflects the importance of the Quad in shaping global policies.
“Our discussions spanned various dimensions of ensuring a free, open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. We agreed on the need to think bigger, deepen our focus, and intensify our collaborative efforts.
“This meeting sends a clear message: in a turbulent world, the Quad remains a steadfast force for global good.”
The joint statement reiterated the four nations’ shared vision for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, where the rule of law, democratic values, sovereignty, and territorial integrity are upheld.
“We firmly oppose any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo through force or coercion. Our nations are committed to promoting peace, stability, and economic opportunity, underpinned by resilient supply chains and security in all domains, including maritime and technology,” the statement read.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism, stating, “On my first day in office, I hosted the Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan for a critical Quad meeting. Together, we are dedicated to fostering economic growth and maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific.”
Australian FM Penny Wong noted the significance of the meeting’s timing: “Today’s Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting, held so early in the Trump Administration’s tenure, reflects our collective determination to ensure a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific.”
The Japanese Foreign Ministry, in its statement, underlined the importance of strategic discussions on regional security, highlighting North Korea’s nuclear threats and China’s aggressive activities in the East and South China Seas.
The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening maritime, economic, and technological security while preparing for India’s hosting of the next Quad Leaders’ Summit. They also resolved to hold regular meetings to further the Quad’s vision for a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
This high-priority meeting marked a significant step in deepening cooperation among Quad nations and addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing global landscape.
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