Quad Reflects On Growth From Disaster Relief To Strategic Partnership

WASHINGTON DC (ANI) – The diplomatic partnership between India, Australia, Japan, and the United States, known as the Quad, commemorated its 20th anniversary on December 25. The grouping, which was originally formed in response to the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, has evolved into a dynamic alliance focused on addressing a range of regional challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

In a joint statement issued by the Secretary of State of the United States and the Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan, the Quad nations highlighted their collaboration in the aftermath of one of the worst natural disasters in history. The 2004 tsunami, which claimed nearly a quarter million lives and displaced millions, prompted the four countries to come together to provide emergency aid. Over 40,000 responders from the Quad nations worked alongside other partners to help those affected.

“Twenty years ago, in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, Australia, India, Japan, and the United States came together in service to the people of our region for the first time as the grouping now known as the Quad,” the statement said. “We honor the memories of those no longer with us and recognize the survivors and the families of those who were lost.”

Commitment to Humanitarian Relief

The statement reaffirmed the Quad’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The four nations continue to work side-by-side to improve disaster preparedness and enhance relief efforts across the Indo-Pacific. In 2024, they collectively supported numerous disaster preparedness initiatives, while also building on past efforts to respond swiftly to humanitarian crises.

“We continue to work together to prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to disasters across the region,” the statement noted.

Expanding Focus and Collaboration

Over the past two decades, the Quad has expanded its focus from disaster relief to addressing a wide range of global issues. The grouping now works on a variety of complex challenges, including climate change, pandemic response, counter-terrorism, cyber security, and the promotion of quality infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. Since 2021, the leaders of the Quad nations have met annually to drive forward the partnership’s positive contributions, particularly in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific.

“What began as an emergency response to a catastrophe has grown into a full-fledged partnership delivering positive outcomes for the people of our region,” the statement said.

Shared Vision for a Free, Open Indo-Pacific

The Quad reaffirmed its shared vision for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, one that is peaceful, stable, and inclusive. The nations expressed their ongoing support for regional institutions, including ASEAN and the Pacific Islands Forum, and emphasized the importance of cooperation to meet the evolving needs of the region.

“We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEAN’s centrality and unity,” the statement said. “We are also steadfast in our support for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the region’s premier organization.”

Looking Ahead

The Quad leaders have met regularly since their first summit in 2021, with subsequent in-person summits held in Washington DC (2021), Japan (2022), and Hiroshima (2023). These meetings have solidified the Quad’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and fostering a peaceful, prosperous Indo-Pacific.

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