On July 29, 2024, in Tokyo, the Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan, alongside the U.S. Secretary of State, reaffirmed their united commitment to Indo-Pacific maritime security and a free and open Indo-Pacific. The Quad nations emphasized their dedication to enhancing maritime security, inclusivity, and resilience in the region, underpinned by a rules-based international order and core principles like freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.
Strengthening Maritime Stability
The Quad underscored their collective efforts to bolster maritime security within the Indo-Pacific region. This includes initiatives to address challenges such as maritime domain awareness, cybersecurity, and the management of emerging technologies. Their aim is to ensure a region where all countries can exercise their rights and engage in trade without coercion.
Supporting Maritime Institutions
The Quad expressed strong support for key regional institutions like ASEAN and the Pacific Islands Forum, which play crucial roles in maintaining Indo-Pacific maritime security and prosperity. They also endorsed the Indian Ocean Rim Association’s efforts to address maritime challenges in the region.
Upholding Maritime Law and Order
Reaffirming their commitment to Indo-Pacific maritime security, the Quad emphasized the importance of adhering to international maritime law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They voiced concerns over activities in the East and South China Seas and opposed any unilateral actions that could alter the status quo through force or coercion. Enhancing maritime domain awareness through initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness was highlighted as a priority.
Promoting Maritime Technological Innovation
The Quad recognized the vital role of emerging technologies in maritime security. They support the development of secure and diverse telecommunications networks and are advancing projects like the Quad Fellowship and AI-ENGAGE to foster innovation and resilience. The focus on cybersecurity also includes safeguarding maritime infrastructure and combating disinformation that impacts maritime security.
Addressing Maritime and Global Challenges
The Quad remains committed to global peace and humanitarian efforts, including combating terrorism and extremism. They reaffirmed their dedication to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to tackle climate change and promote clean energy transitions.
As the Quad continues to evolve, upcoming meetings in India and the U.S. in 2025 will further address maritime and regional challenges, aiming to enhance Indo-Pacific maritime security and prosperity.
Source : U.S Departement of State
