The Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States issued a joint statement today commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Quad cooperation, a diplomatic network dedicated to promoting a free, open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. The statement highlights the enduring strength of the Quad’s partnership, which was first formed in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.
A Legacy of Humanitarian Support and Disaster Relief
The statement reflects on the origins of the Quad, which came together following the catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. The disaster claimed nearly 250,000 lives and displaced millions across 14 countries. In response, Australia, India, Japan, and the United States collectively contributed over 40,000 emergency responders, working alongside other regional partners to provide life-saving relief to affected populations.
“We honor the memories of those no longer with us and recognize the survivors and the families of those who were lost,” the joint statement said, acknowledging the immense human toll of the tragedy.
The Quad countries reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, which remains a cornerstone of the partnership. In 2024, the four nations collaborated on disaster preparedness and response efforts across the Indo-Pacific. They also highlighted their shared goal of building capacity for rapid response to future crises, ensuring that the region remains resilient in the face of natural disasters.
A Broader Partnership for a Better Indo-Pacific
What began as an emergency response to a devastating catastrophe has evolved into a comprehensive partnership addressing a range of complex regional challenges. The Quad’s activities now extend to critical issues such as climate change, global health, technology, infrastructure development, and security.
“Since 2021, the Leaders of our four nations have met annually to drive the Quad’s positive contributions across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific,” the statement noted. This includes joint efforts to combat cancer, respond to pandemics, enhance quality infrastructure, improve maritime domain awareness, and bolster cybersecurity and counter-terrorism efforts. The Quad countries have also placed a strong emphasis on advancing STEM education and supporting critical and emerging technologies in the region.
A Shared Vision for the Future of the Indo-Pacific
The Quad nations reiterated their shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, one that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous. The statement emphasized the importance of effective regional institutions and reaffirmed unwavering support for key frameworks such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Pacific Islands Forum.
The Quad leaders also expressed their commitment to the Indian Ocean Rim Association as the premier regional organization for dialogue and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. Together, the Quad nations are dedicated to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity, and to ensuring that regional architecture remains responsive to the evolving challenges of the Indo-Pacific.
Moving Forward: The Quad’s Role in the Region
Looking ahead, the Quad countries expressed their commitment to deepening their cooperation and responding to the future needs of the Indo-Pacific region. The 20th anniversary of the Quad cooperation marks a significant milestone, but it also serves as a reminder of the long-term vision and enduring partnerships that have defined the Quad over the past two decades.
As the region continues to face new and emerging challenges, the Quad stands ready to play a central role in shaping a prosperous and inclusive future for the Indo-Pacific.
The joint statement marks a significant moment in the Quad’s history, highlighting its evolution from a humanitarian initiative to a dynamic, multi-faceted partnership driving regional cooperation across a variety of sectors.