In a signal to China, Modi says Quad 'not against anyone but here to stay'

Highlights:

• During the sixth Quad summit in Delaware, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leaders of the Quad group — the U.S., Japan, and Australia — emphasized their commitment to maintaining a rules-based international order, addressing regional and global conflicts, and reaffirming their peaceful resolution of disputes.
• The summit, however, placed significant focus on China’s aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Quad's Stance on Global Tensions:

• Modi underscored that the Quad is “not against anyone,” reaffirming the group's dedication to a rules-based order and respect for sovereignty.
• This was a subtle reference to China’s activities, which were more directly addressed by U.S. President Joe Biden’s remarks. He noted China’s attempts to “test” the Quad and seek diplomatic space through aggressive actions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Straits.

Biden’s Comments:

• Biden candidly expressed that China’s aggressive maneuvers continue across several regions, including South Asia and the Indo-Pacific. He added that while China shifts tactics, its strategy remains unchanged, focused on domestic economic challenges and securing diplomatic leverage.

The Quad Declaration: Key Issues Addressed

1. China’s Militarization in the Indo-Pacific

• The declaration condemned China's militarization and intimidating maneuvers in the South China Sea, with a sharp focus on the use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels.
• It reiterated the importance of the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea, which invalidates China’s claim to “historic rights” in the region.

2. War in Ukraine

• The Quad expressed concern over the humanitarian impacts of the war in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive peace respecting international law.
• The group also condemned the use or threat of nuclear weapons and highlighted the war's impact on global food and energy security, especially for developing nations.

3. Gaza Conflict

• The declaration condemned the October 7, 2023 terror attacks by Hamas and stressed the need for a ceasefire contingent on the release of hostages. It emphasized the urgency of humanitarian aid to Gaza and the prevention of regional escalation.

New Initiatives Announced

1. Quad Cancer Moonshot

• A new health initiative was launched to combat cervical cancer in the Indo-Pacific, with plans to address other forms of cancer in the future.

2. Maritime Security Cooperation

• The Quad expanded its cooperation in maritime security, launching initiatives to provide new technologies to regional partners and enhance coast guard collaboration.

The Future of the Quad

• Modi and Biden emphasized that the Quad alliance is here to stay, with Biden reinforcing that challenges like those posed by China require both intense competition and diplomacy. Japan's Prime Minister Kishida and Australia's PM Albanese highlighted the Quad’s importance in maintaining a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific and managing strategic competition in the region.

Prelims Takeaways:

• UN charter