Quad foreign ministers discuss Indo-Pacific strategy, summit agenda in Washington

On Tuesday, the Quad nations’ foreign ministers engaged in extensive talks aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the four-nation alliance in addressing a range of global issues.

The gathering also debated on the agenda for the Quad’s annual summit, which will be held in India later this year.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and her Japanese colleague Takeshi Iwaya all attended the conference in the US capital.

In a social media post, Jaishankar praised the discussion as “very productive”.

“Discussed how to make Quad more focused and impactful on contemporary opportunities and challenges,” he said.

“Today’s gathering will strengthen strategic stability in the Indo-Pacific and keep it free and open,” he added.

The Quad, comprising India, the US, Australia and Japan, has emerged as a key grouping largely focusing on peace, security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Ahead of the meeting, Jaishankar told reporters that the working of the Quad is also being made more efficient.

“A more cohesive, nimble and focused Quad will certainly help deliver better,” he said.

The external affairs minister asserted that Quad is committed to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.

“To that end, our endeavours are devoted to promoting a rules-based international order. It is essential that nations of the Indo-Pacific have the freedom of choice, so essential to make right decisions on development and security,” he said.

“In the last few months, we have made significant progress in Quad initiatives. They include the maritime domain, logistics, education and political coordination,” he added.

The external affairs minister said Quad is about deepening convergence and expanding common ground.

The Quad summit is likely to take place in November.

Jaishankar is visiting the US from June 30 to July 2 at the invitation of Rubio.