Quad Nations Pledge Unified Stand for Free and Open Indo-Pacific

The Quad, comprising the foreign ministers of India, the US, Japan, and Australia, reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. They emphasized respecting international law, human rights, and territorial integrity while voicing concerns over China's influence. The ministers also condemned terrorism and urged strict action against UN-listed terrorist groups.

The Quad countries on Monday reaffirmed their strong commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, emphasizing a regional environment free from dominance and coercion. The foreign ministers vowed to uphold a rules-based international order respecting human rights, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

At the meeting, India's S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan's Yoko Kamikawa, and Australia's Penny Wong expressed concerns over China's actions in the East and South China Seas. They opposed any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo through force or coercion.

The Quad condemned terrorism and extremist violence, calling for immediate action to prevent territories from being used for terrorist purposes. They highlighted the need for international cooperation to address threats from groups like Al-Qaida, ISIS, and others.

(With inputs from agencies.)