Leaders of the Quad alliance—Australia, the United States, Japan, and India—delivered a resounding message of solidarity and commitment during a high-level summit in Delaware, vowing to strengthen their partnership in the face of global challenges.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated that the Quad would continue to serve as a stabilising force in the Indo-Pacific, despite changes in political leadership across their nations.
Meeting at President Biden’s alma mater, Archmere Academy, the leaders discussed a range of pressing issues, with a strong focus on maritime security in the Indo-Pacific and countering China’s growing influence in the region.
A key initiative announced was the deployment of Australian Border Force personnel on US Coast Guard vessels, in cooperation with Japanese and Indian forces, to patrol against illegal fishing and transnational crime in the region.
“The Quad is here to stay,” declared President Biden, underscoring the alliance’s enduring relevance even as he approaches the end of his presidency. Biden emphasised that the Quad partnership would continue beyond the US election in November, ensuring its longevity regardless of political transitions.
In a statement, Albanese echoed Biden’s sentiments, praising the Quad’s ability to evolve and adapt in response to regional needs.
“For Australia, the Quad is a key instrument to promote stability in our region. A stronger Quad means a stronger Australia,” he said, adding that the partnership is instrumental in addressing challenges such as cyber resilience, clean energy, and counter-terrorism.
Amid rising tensions in the South China Sea, China’s assertiveness was a major talking point during the summit. While the leaders did not explicitly target China, their discussions focused on reinforcing the rules-based international order and ensuring regional sovereignty.
Modi, switching between Hindi and English, reaffirmed the Quad’s commitment to peace and security, stating, “Our message is clear: Quad is here to stay, to assist, to partner, and to complement.” He stressed that the alliance was not aimed against any nation but was dedicated to promoting a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
The summit took place under a symbolic setting at Archmere Academy, where Biden’s personal history with the school added a deeply reflective tone to the gathering. The venue also hosted the funeral of his late son, Beau Biden, further connecting the President’s past to his vision for the future of international cooperation.
The Quad leaders also touched on energy security, with Albanese assuring Kishida that Australia would remain a reliable energy supplier, particularly as Japan relies heavily on gas imports. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering the Quad’s collective response to shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific.
Looking ahead, Modi extended an invitation to host the next Quad Leaders’ Summit in India in 2025, signalling that the alliance will continue to shape the Indo-Pacific’s security architecture for years to come.
At the summit, Albanese expressed his anticipation, stating, “Can I also say how much I’m looking forward to my good friend Prime Minister Modi hosting next year’s Quad Leaders’ Summit in India.” President Biden captured the essence of the meeting, remarking, “While challenges will come, the world will change, but the Quad is here to stay.”
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