Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized at the Quad Leaders’ Summit on Saturday (September 21, 2024) that the Quad is not directed against any specific country, but rather aims to uphold a rules-based international order and promote respect for sovereignty.
“Our message is clear – Quad is here to stay, to assist, to partner and to complement,” stated Mr. Modi during his opening remarks at the summit, which was hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden and attended by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
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“We are not against anybody, we are for international rules-based order, respect for sovereignty,” Mr. Modi reiterated.
Mr. Modi highlighted that the Quad’s primary focus is on fostering a free, open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, without explicitly naming any country.
China’s involvement in contentious territorial disputes in the South China Sea and the East China Sea was also referenced.
Regarding the Quad Summit, Mr. Modi remarked that the gathering took place amidst global tensions and challenges, underscoring the significance of the democratic values upheld by the Quad in such circumstances.
He commended the expansion of cooperation among Quad members since the inaugural summit in 2021, expressing gratitude for the commitment, leadership, and contributions of all participants.
This summit marked a farewell for President Biden as his term in office nears its conclusion, with Mr. Modi expressing willingness to host the Quad Summit in 2025.
Originally planned to be held in India, the Quad Leaders’ Summit was relocated to the U.S. at President Biden’s request.
The Quad, comprising the U.S., Japan, India, and Australia, was formed in 2017 to address China’s assertive actions in the Indo-Pacific region, advocating for a free, open, and inclusive environment.
The Quad’s principles have been met with opposition from China, which perceives the coalition as an effort to contain its influence.
Published – September 22, 2024 02:26 am IST
