Leaders from Australia, India, Japan, and the United States announced new security initiatives in the Indian Ocean during a meeting near Wilmington, Delaware, hosted by outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden. The meeting focused on maintaining the Quad, a grouping of countries established based on shared concerns about China. Plans were announced to expand the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness and conduct joint coast guard operations. The leaders also discussed increased military logistics cooperation and the provision of critical technologies, including a new open radio access network, to Pacific islands and Southeast Asia.
During the meeting, hot mic comments revealed discussions about China, with Biden and Secretary of State Blinken highlighting Chinese behavior in the region. The meeting emphasized the need for intense diplomacy in the face of China’s aggressive actions, reflecting the growing concerns about China’s intentions. The gathering reflected efforts to institutionalize the Quad ahead of changes in leadership in the participating countries.
Analysts noted that India, traditionally wary of military alliances, may be more open to Quad security cooperation due to China’s recent maritime aggression. The meeting aimed to demonstrate the strategic alignment of the Quad partners and their commitment to providing public goods in the Indo-Pacific region. Discussions also included support for Pacific island countries in response to China’s security ambitions and efforts on climate change and energy security. The meeting highlighted the Quad’s continued relevance in navigating regional security challenges.
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