In a joint statement released on July 1, 2025, in Washington D.C., the Quad foreign ministers – those of the United States, Australia, India, and Japan – reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The meeting, which took place at the U.S. Department of State, marked a significant moment in strengthening ties between these four major maritime nations.
A Free and Open Indo-Pacific: Shared Commitment
The Quad foreign ministers reiterated their steadfast commitment to defending the rule of law, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in the region. They underscored the importance of peace and stability in the maritime domain, which underpin the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific. The four nations emphasized their united stance against any unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion.
Renewed Focus on Key Areas
The Quad foreign ministers announced a new, ambitious agenda focused on four key areas: maritime and transnational security, economic prosperity and security, critical and emerging technology, and humanitarian assistance and emergency response. This renewed focus aims to sharpen the Quad’s ability to leverage its resources to address the region’s most pressing challenges.
Ambitious Initiatives Launched
Key initiatives launched by the Quad include:
- The Quad Critical Minerals Initiative, which seeks to strengthen economic security and collective resilience by collaborating on critical minerals supply chains.
- The Quad Ports of the Future Partnership, aimed at promoting innovation and development in ports across the Indo-Pacific region.
- A new field training exercise for the Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network, designed to enhance shared airlift capacity and respond more rapidly and efficiently to natural disasters.
Concerns on Regional Security Issues
The Quad foreign ministers expressed serious concerns regarding the situation in the East China Sea and South China Sea. They reiterated their strong opposition to any unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion, particularly with regards to the militarization of disputed features.
Addressing Global Challenges
In addition to regional security issues, the Quad foreign ministers also discussed global challenges such as:
The constriction and future reliability of key supply chains, including critical minerals.
North Korea’s destabilizing launches using ballistic missile technology and its continued pursuit of nuclear weapons.
The worsening crisis in Myanmar and its impact on the region.
Quad Condemns Terrorism and Extremism
The Quad foreign ministers unequivocally condemned all acts of terrorism and violent extremism, including cross-border terrorism. They reaffirmed their commitment to counterterrorism cooperation and expressed deep concern about countries that are deepening military cooperation with North Korea.
A Commitment to Humanitarian Assistance
The Quad foreign ministers reiterated their strong support for ASEAN’s efforts in seeking an inclusive, durable, and peaceful resolution to the crisis in Myanmar. They also emphasized the importance of allowing safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance.
Conclusion
As the Quad continues to evolve, its four democracies remain committed to deepening cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The joint statement released on July 1, 2025, marks an important moment in strengthening ties between these four major maritime nations.