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Quad Ministers Focus On Strategic Cooperation For Indo-Pacific Ahead Of High-Stakes Summit

July 2, 2025, 2:51 am

At a top-level meeting in Washington on Tuesday, the Quad group’s foreign ministers India, the United States, Australia, and Japan discussed ways to increase the effectiveness of the group in addressing various global challenges. The meeting also prepared the stage for the Quad summit, which will be held annually in India later this year, expected to be in November.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya attended the deliberations. Calling the meeting “very productive,” Jaishankar explained the talks centered on how to make the Quad more effective in confronting the challenges and opportunities of today.

This meeting will increase strategic stability in the Indo-Pacific and keep it free and open,” Jaishankar wrote in a social media release.

Addressing journalists before the meeting, Jaishankar stressed the need to make the Quad more united, nimble, and streamlined, which would result in more impactful outcomes. He underlined the grouping’s guarantee of ensuring a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, insisting that countries in the region must be able to independently decide how they want to develop and be secure.

Jaishankar also pointed to recent achievements in several Quad-led efforts, such as collaboration in the maritime sector, logistics, education, and political coordination. He observed that the grouping is increasingly working towards enlarging areas of convergence and creating commonalities among its members.

Jaishankar is on an official US visit from June 30 to July 2 at the invitation of Secretary Rubio. The Quad remains a crucial multilateral platform for securing peace, security, and regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

China-Taiwan Standoff: A Ticking Time Bomb Or Just Political Posturing? | TDG Explainer

March 22, 2025, 2:56 am

The roots of the China-Taiwan divide trace back to the Chinese Civil War (1927–1949), fought between the Nationalist Kuomintang (KMT) and the Communist Party of China (CPC). After the CPC’s victory in 1949, the KMT retreated to Taiwan, establishing the Republic of China (ROC) government there. Since then, Taiwan has operated with its own political system, separate from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on the mainland.

Political Dynamics

Beijing views Taiwan as a breakaway province that must eventually be reunified with the mainland, by force if necessary. Taiwan, however, maintains its own democratic government and operates as a separate entity, though it has not officially declared independence. The PRC’s “One China” principle asserts that there is only one China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of it. This principle has been a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy and a source of tension with countries that engage with Taiwan as a separate nation.

Military Tensions

Military tensions have escalated in recent years, with China conducting extensive military drills near Taiwan. These exercises often involve warplanes crossing the Taiwan Strait’s median line, a previously respected buffer zone. Satellite imagery has revealed China’s construction of amphibious assault capabilities, raising concerns about a potential invasion.

In response, Taiwan has bolstered its defense capabilities. Measures include extending mandatory military service to one year starting in 2024 and acquiring advanced weapons systems. Taiwan’s defense ministry has emphasized the importance of preparedness, warning against the risks of aggression.

International Involvement

United States plays a pivotal role in the China-Taiwan dynamic. While officially adhering to the “One China” policy, the US maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan and provides defensive support under the Taiwan Relations Act. This act obligates the US to assist Taiwan in maintaining its self-defense capabilities. Recent arms sales and high-profile visits have further strained US-China relations.

Other nations, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, have conducted naval transits through the Taiwan Strait, signalling international concern over the region’s stability.

Economic Considerations

Taiwan’s strategic importance extends beyond military considerations. The island is a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, producing over 60% of the world’s semiconductors and more than 90% of advanced chips. Any disruption to Taiwan’s economy could have far-reaching effects on global markets, particularly in the technology sector.

Public Sentiment and Identity

Within Taiwan, public sentiment increasingly favours maintaining the status quo or pursuing formal independence. Polls indicate that a significant portion of the population supports independence, particularly among younger generations. This shift reflects a distinct Taiwanese identity that has developed over decades, differentiating itself from mainland China.

The tensions between China and Taiwan are deeply rooted in historical conflicts, divergent political systems, and contrasting national identities. Military posturing, international alliances, and economic interdependencies further complicate the situation. As both sides navigate this delicate relationship, the international community watches closely, understanding that the future of China-Taiwan relations holds significant implications for regional and global stability.

Quad Nations Oppose Unilateral Status Quo Changes in Indo-Pacific

January 22, 2025, 10:51 am

The Donald Trump administration marked its first significant foreign policy engagement by hosting a Quad foreign ministers’ meeting, underscoring a unified commitment to fostering maritime, economic, and technological security in the Indo-Pacific. The meeting brought together representatives from the United States, Japan, India, and Australia, who reiterated their shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific amidst growing regional challenges.

Focus on Cooperation and Security

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya participated in the high-level discussions. The Quad leaders condemned unilateral actions aimed at altering the status quo through force or coercion, signaling a strong stance against China’s growing assertiveness.

The Quad ministers stressed principles like the rule of law, democracy, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law in committing to peace, stability, and economic opportunity in the region.

Supply Chain Resilience and Tech Cooperation

The meeting underlined the determination of the Quad to strengthen regional supply chain resilience. Given the world’s dependence on China for crucial supply chains, the Quad reaffirmed its commitment to diversify manufacturing and reduce vulnerabilities.

The ministers discussed collaboration in technology domains, including telecommunications, semiconductors, and cybersecurity. They highlighted the need to counter Chinese technological dominance and ensure robust tech security frameworks.

Quad Message to China

The ministers, in their joint statement, raised concerns over China’s actions in the South China Sea and increasing aggression toward its neighbors. The group opposed unilateral moves to alter the status quo, including China’s maritime disputes and coercive strategies in Taiwan and the Philippines.

The Quad underscored its commitment to strengthening maritime security, with initiatives like the maritime domain awareness program and joint military exercises. The ministers stressed the importance of adhering to international law and maintaining stability in contested waters.

India’s Role and Future Summit Plans

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the Quad’s proactive approach to addressing global challenges. “Significant that the Quad FMM took place within hours of the inauguration of the Trump Administration. This underlines the priority it has in the foreign policy of its member states. Our wide-ranging discussions addressed different dimensions of ensuring a free, open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of thinking bigger and intensifying collaboration.

Attended a productive Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting today in Washington DC. Thank @secrubio for hosting us and FMs @SenatorWong & Takeshi Iwaya for their participation.

Significant that the Quad FMM took place within hours of the inauguration of the Trump Administration. This… pic.twitter.com/uGa4rjg1Bw

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) January 21, 2025

India’s hosting of the next Quad Summit later this year will mark a historic moment, as it becomes the venue for President Trump’s first visit to the country in his inaugural year. This reflects the growing significance of India-US ties and the Quad’s strategic partnership.

Trump Administration’s Signals to China

The Quad meeting occurred amid mixed signals from President Trump on his administration’s China strategy. While Trump has shown an interest in engaging diplomatically with Chinese President Xi Jinping, his administration’s actions suggest a cautious approach toward Beijing.

The meeting’s timing—hours after the inauguration and confirmation of Marco Rubio as Secretary of State—demonstrates the priority the Trump administration places on Quad cooperation. The bipartisan support for Quad underscores its critical role in shaping Indo-Pacific geopolitics.

Australian and Japanese Perspectives

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that the Quad shares a common vision for a peaceful Indo-Pacific. “The early timing of this meeting reflects our collective determination to work for regional stability and prosperity,” she said.

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya reiterated Japan’s commitment to the goals of the Quad and praised the group’s efforts in working on the challenges in the maritime domain.

Cooperation and Competition in Balance

Despite the Trump administration’s signals of openness toward diplomatic engagement with China, the Quad meeting sent a strong message of collective resolve. The group’s focus on maritime security, supply chain diversification, and technology underscores its commitment to a rules-based international order.

US Navy Patrol In Taiwan Strait Spark Tensions, Reaffirms Commitment To Free Indo-Pacific

November 26, 2024, 1:49 pm

A US Navy patrol aircraft transited the Taiwan Strait on Tuesday, asserting international rights in the disputed waters, the US 7th Fleet reported. The flight, conducted by a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, passed through what the US deems international airspace, reinforcing Washington’s ongoing commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

This action is part of regular US military operations in the region, which frequently stir tensions with China. Beijing, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan, asserts jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait, a critical waterway separating the self-governing island from mainland China. The US and Taiwan, however, maintain that the strait is international waters, with freedom of passage for all nations.

The US Navy emphasized that the operation, conducted in accordance with international law, upheld the navigational rights and freedoms of all nations. These transits are a frequent part of US efforts to challenge China’s territorial claims and maintain open access to key waterways in the region.

China’s defense ministry had not immediately responded to the latest transit. In April, Chinese military jets had intercepted a US Navy Poseidon aircraft in the strait, following a call between the Chinese and US defense chiefs. The latest flight underscores the ongoing strategic competition between the two nations in the Indo-Pacific.

France Boosts Military Presence, Joins India In Navy Drills Defying China In Indo-Pacific

November 12, 2024, 1:33 pm

Show of Strength to China and Allies

France is set to deploy a formidable carrier strike group led by its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, “Charles de Gaulle”, to the Indo-Pacific region, a move designed to demonstrate its military strength and reinforce its alliances. The deployment comes shortly after the return of the frigate “Bretagne”, which completed a seven-month mission in the region.

Carrier Strike Group Composition and Mission

The “Charles de Gaulle” will be joined by an array of vessels, including warships, logistical support ships, and submarines. The deployment, known as Clemenceau 25, will involve multiple military exercises and historic port calls, signaling France’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the Indo-Pacific. The French Navy is preparing for up to three military drills in the Indian Ocean, two of which will be held with the Indian Navy.

The carrier strike group will include the “Charles de Gaulle”, along with a Horizon-type air defense destroyer, the “Aquitaine” frigate, a nuclear-powered attack submarine, and logistical support ships. Additionally, 24 Rafale Marine warplanes, two E-2C Hawkeye aircraft, and several helicopters will be part of the group, which will have around 3,000 personnel onboard.

Targeting Chinese Aggression in the Region

France’s strategic deployment is seen as a counter to China’s growing influence and aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific. As China asserts its dominance, especially with territorial ambitions in the South China Sea, the United States, India, and other democratic nations have been strengthening their military cooperation to counter Beijing’s hegemonic designs. By deploying its carrier strike group, France is contributing to these efforts and asserting its role as a blue-water navy with interoperability with regional allies.

Historic Port Calls and Multinational Drills

One of the highlights of the deployment is the “Charles de Gaulle”’s planned historic port visits to Japan and the Philippines two nations that have frequently faced Chinese military aggression. The French carrier strike group will also participate in three major naval exercises during its mission.

The first exercise will be the annual “Varuna” exercise with India in the Western Indian Ocean. It will then take part in the “La Perouse” multinational biennial exercise near Australia and Indonesia, alongside navies from India, Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, Canada, the UK, and the US. Lastly, the group will join the “Pacific Steller” exercise near Guam, alongside the UK, US, Japan, and Canada.

France’s Growing Role as a Pacific Nation

This deployment highlights France’s growing role in the Indo-Pacific region. A French naval officer emphasized that the continued investment in military assets shows France’s credibility in the area, reaffirming its status as a contributing Pacific nation. With the region becoming increasingly vital for global security, France’s military presence signals its commitment to supporting regional stability and countering external threats.

PM Modi: Quad Countries Stand For Peaceful Resolution And Inclusive Indo-Pacific

September 22, 2024, 4:30 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Saturday that the Quad Summit is happening at a time when the world is facing tensions and conflict, emphasizing the importance of Quad nations working together based on shared democratic values for the benefit of all humanity.

In his opening remarks at the summit, Modi stressed that the Quad is not directed against any nation, but supports a rules-based international order, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the peaceful resolution of issues.

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He highlighted that a free, open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific is a shared priority and commitment of the Quad countries. Modi also noted that the first Quad Summit took place under the leadership of US President Joe Biden.

“It gives me immense pleasure to participate at this Quad Summit during my third term…Under your leadership, the first summit (QUAD) of 2021 was organised. In such a short time, we have expanded our cooperation in an unprecedented way in every direction. You have played a very important role in this. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your strong commitment and contribution to Quad,” PM Modi said.

“Quad Summit is taking place at a time when the world is surrounded by tensions and conflicts. In such a situation, the QUAD’s working together on the basis of shared democratic values is very important for the entire humanity. We are not against anyone. We all support rules-based international order, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and peaceful resolution of all issues. Free, open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific is our shared priority and shared commitment,” he added.

Modi mentioned that the Quad nations have collaboratively launched several positive and inclusive initiatives in key areas such as health, security, critical and emerging technologies, climate change, and capacity building. “Our message is clear- the QUAD is here to stay, to assist, to partner and to complement. I once again greet President Biden and all my colleagues. We will be happy to organize the QUAD Leaders Summit in India in 2025,” he said.

The Quad Summit, hosted by President Joe Biden in his hometown of Wilmington, Delaware, saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrive earlier in the day at Philadelphia airport as part of the first leg of his three-day US visit.

Before attending the summit, PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with President Biden, where they explored new ways to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

During his US visit, Modi will also address the Summit of the Future at the UN General Assembly in New York, engage with the Indian diaspora, and meet with prominent American business leaders.

Alongside PM Modi and President Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida are participating in the Quad Summit. This forum has become a significant alliance of like-minded nations focused on fostering peace, progress, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

Also Read: Trump’s New Silver Medallion: A Political Statement Or Collector’s Dream?

Quad’s Mission: Enhancing Well-Being In The Indo-Pacific, Says US State Department

September 20, 2024, 1:20 pm

The US State Department’s Hindustani Language Spokesperson, Margaret Macleod, stated that the Quad, consisting of Australia, Japan, India, and the US, has been focused on improving lives in the Indo-Pacific since its inception. She emphasized that President Joe Biden is hosting the upcoming Quad Summit in Delaware to showcase the significance of his personal relationships with the leaders of the Quad nations.

In an interview with ANI, Macleod mentioned that the next joint statement from the Quad will outline cooperation in various sectors, including cyber security, health security, and maritime security. She remarked, “Quad, since its inception, has been working to make the lives of people better in the Indo-Pacific region.”

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Biden’s Commitment

MacLeod explained that the Quad Summit on September 21 marks Biden’s first time hosting foreign leaders in Wilmington, his hometown. She indicated that the agenda for bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not yet been disclosed by the White House.

Strong US-India Ties

Emphasizing the robust partnership between India and the US, Macleod noted ongoing cooperation in education, space, and advanced technology. She expressed confidence that the relationship will remain significant, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming US elections. “I think there is a lot to talk between India and the US,” she added.

Quad’s Non-Security Focus

MacLeod clarified that the Quad is not a security alliance but acknowledged its response to China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea. She highlighted the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness, initiated by the Quad in 2022, as a means of enhancing maritime security in the region.

Addressing China’s Actions

Commenting on China’s recent aggressive behavior, including an attack on a Philippine Coast Guard aircraft, Macleod stated, “Our US government clearly said that the People’s Republic of China government shouldn’t do such acts.” She emphasized that the Quad’s goal is to ensure secure maritime borders for all Indo-Pacific nations.

PM Modi’s Upcoming Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the US from September 21 to 23, participating in the Quad Summit and addressing the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the UN General Assembly in New York. During his trip, he will meet with various world leaders to discuss mutual interests and will address the Indian community in New York on September 22.

The Ministry of External Affairs noted that the Quad leaders will review progress made over the past year and set an agenda to support the Indo-Pacific region in achieving development goals and aspirations.

Also Read: White House: Quad Group Now More Strategically Aligned And Relevant Than Ever

India’s Nuclear Triad Asserts Power In The Indo-Pacific

August 30, 2024, 11:20 am

By commissioning two nuclear ballistic missile submarines during his two terms in office, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has demonstrated his commitment to the “India First” policy, aligning with India’s goal of acquiring a ‘credible, minimum,’ and indigenous nuclear deterrent with second-strike capability.

The first ballistic missile submarine, SSBN INS Arihant, was commissioned in 2018, nine years after its launch, followed by the second, INS Arighaat, which was commissioned on August 29, 2024, seven years after its launch. The third submarine, INS Aridaman, is scheduled for commissioning next year within a similar timeframe. Additionally, INS Dhruv, India’s first ballistic missile tracking ship, was commissioned on September 10, 2021, by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

As part of India’s nuclear triad, the two ballistic missile submarines position India as a formidable blue-water Navy with over-the-horizon missile capabilities. These submarines not only enhance India’s access denial capabilities in the Indo-Pacific but also serve as a deterrent to any threats to India’s land and coastline.

With two aircraft carriers and two SSBNs, India currently dominates the Indian Ocean region, backed by a powerful fleet of destroyers, frigates, and diesel attack submarines. This military strength sends a clear message to adversaries that any aggression will be met with significant force.

The Modi government’s preference for a sub-surface deterrent over large surface platforms is evident, as the Navy prioritizes the construction of two nuclear-powered, conventionally armed submarines and three additional Kalvari-class diesel attack submarines with advanced capabilities, rather than a third air defense ship.

While India builds its indigenous capabilities, the government remains vigilant of the Chinese PLA Navy, which currently has three scientific survey vessels conducting hydrographic surveys from south of Car Nicobar to east of Sri Lanka, likely for future submarine operations. The PLA anti-piracy task force, including a destroyer and two landing ships, recently completed an operational turnaround at Colombo deep sea port.

With China advancing satellite technologies to track submarines from space, the Modi government appears to be shifting focus from a traditional land-based military doctrine to a sea-based strategy.

Jaishankar’s Diplomatic Retort: “No Bad Manners Expected” On US Politics Question

July 30, 2024, 11:20 pm

Tokyo, July 30, 2024: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a masterclass in diplomacy during his recent visit to Japan, responding skillfully to a question about US politics amid the country’s election season.

Diplomatic Response:
At a press conference held at the Japan National Press Club in Tokyo, Jaishankar was asked to comment on American politics. He responded, “If I have just said that I don’t think it’s appropriate for people in one democracy to comment, especially with an agenda, on the workings of another democracy, surely you are not expecting bad manners from my side.”

He further explained, “If I am complaining that others don’t follow the right etiquette, I think it’s important that I set an example. The best answer I can give you is not to answer the question.” Jaishankar’s comments appeared to address recent criticisms from the US State Department regarding India’s internal affairs.

Quad Meeting and Bilateral Talks:
Jaishankar’s comments followed a meeting of the Quad bloc’s foreign ministers, which includes the US, India, Japan, and Australia. The meeting was attended by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, and Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Jaishankar also met separately with his Japanese and Australian counterparts to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Ongoing US-India Relations:
On Sunday, Jaishankar engaged in “wide-ranging” talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, reflecting ongoing tensions between India and the US, especially after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Russia.

Jaishankar’s approach underscores India’s commitment to diplomatic decorum while navigating complex international relations.

US Reaffirms Indo-Pacific Commitment Amidst Diplomatic Engagements

May 31, 2024, 9:34 am

The United States has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, pointing to recent diplomatic activities as evidence of continuous dedication.

“We have not taken our eye off the ball when it comes to our efforts and our focus on the Indo-Pacific and the Asia region broadly,” stated Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the US Department of State, emphasizing the administration’s unwavering commitment.

Patel highlighted notable achievements, referencing President Biden’s initiatives, such as a groundbreaking trilateral summit at Camp David involving Japan and the Republic of Korea. Additionally, he mentioned a significant summit held in Woodside, California, between President Biden and the president of the People’s Republic of China, showcasing the administration’s proactive diplomatic approach.

“Let’s not forget that in the past year alone, you have seen this President convene a historic trilateral summit at Camp David between Japan and the Republic of Korea. You saw him hold a historic summit in Woodside, California, with the president of the People’s Republic of China,” he stated during a State Department briefing.

Patel highlighted Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s personal involvement, noting Blinken’s two visits to China in the past twelve months, along with visits by other administration members. These visits signify ongoing dialogue and engagement between the United States and China amid complex bilateral relations.

Furthermore, Patel emphasized the administration’s efforts to bolster regional partnerships, citing a historic trilateral summit involving Japanese and Philippine partners as evidence of collaborative efforts in the Indo-Pacific.

“Secretary Blinken himself, in the past twelve months, has been to China twice, as have other members of this administration. You saw this administration hold a historic trilateral summit between our Japanese partners and our partners in the Philippines,” Patel added.

Jaishankar promotes India-ASEAN cooperation in Indo-Pacific

April 23, 2024, 6:25 pm

In a virtual address at the first ASEAN Future Forum, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of enhanced cooperation between India and ASEAN countries in shaping the emerging regional architecture of the Indo-Pacific. He expressed India’s support for ASEAN unity, centrality, and the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific, highlighting that a strong and unified ASEAN can play a constructive role in regional affairs.

“We support ASEAN unity, ASEAN centrality and the ASEAN outlook on Indo-Pacific. India truly believes that a strong and unified ASEAN can play a constructive role in the emerging regional architecture of the Indo-Pacific,” EAM Jaishankar said in a virtual address at the first ASEAN Future Forum on Tuesday.

Jaishankar mentioned the synergy between India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the ASEAN outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP), as reflected in joint statements, providing a solid framework for addressing comprehensive security challenges.

Referring to India’s G20 presidency and the Voice of Global South summits, he stressed the need for the Global South to have a greater voice in international affairs. Jaishankar emphasized the growing importance of ASEAN and India in dealing with the realities of a multipolar Asia and world order, calling for increased cooperation and coordination between the two entities.

“We also believe that the time has come for the global south to present its perspective and assume a greater role in international affairs. During our G-20 presidency last year, we held virtual Voice of Global South summits with the participation of several ASEAN member states,” he said.

“Today, a multipolar Asia and a multipolar world are increasingly self-evident. This brings to the fore an ever-important role of ASEAN and India in dealing with the realities of the emerging world order. It underlies the need for greater cooperation and coordination between India and ASEAN,” he added.

Regarding security challenges in the Indo-Pacific, Jaishankar highlighted the significance of upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to ensure freedom of navigation, overflight, and unimpeded commerce. He mentioned India’s initiative of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), aimed at contributing to peace and stability.

“India’s initiative of security and growth for all in the region SAGAR is aimed at contributing towards peace and stability in the region. Friends, it is vital that freedom of navigation and overflight and unimpeded commerce are respected and facilitated by all. The 1982 UN Convention on the Laws of Seas provides a comprehensive legal framework and serves as the constitution of the seas, one within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be carried out,” the External Affairs Minister said.

Additionally, Jaishankar discussed collective efforts in dealing with climate change, disasters, transnational crimes, terrorism, cyberattacks, human trafficking, and health and food security. He noted the impact of the digital era and artificial intelligence on security concerns, emphasizing the importance of trust and transparency.

The ASEAN Future Forum, held under Vietnam’s presidency, focuses on fostering a cohesive and dynamic ASEAN business community in the digital age, promoting fast and sustainable growth while prioritizing a people-centered ASEAN Community.

Maldives elects PNC in landslide, shifts focus to China

April 22, 2024, 3:10 pm

Maldives voters have handed President Mohamed Muizzu’s People’s National Congress (PNC)a resounding victory in parliamentary elections, with preliminary results showing the party winning 65 of the 93 seats up for grabs. This outcome, as reported by media on Monday, is expected to steer the Indian Ocean archipelago closer to China and away from its traditional partner India.

The Maldives Elections Commission and media projections revealed that the main opposition Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) saw a significant decrease, securing only 12 seats compared to its previous 65 seats.

The strategic importance of the Maldives has drawn attention from both Beijing and New Delhi, with each vying for influence in the Indo-Pacific region. President Muizzu, elected last year, has indicated a shift away from the country’s longstanding “India First” policy, causing strains in its relationship with New Delhi.

Under Muizzu’s leadership, the government has taken steps such as asking dozens of Indian military personnel to leave the Maldives. Critics argue that this move could expedite the country’s alignment towards China, given Beijing’s increasing presence and investments in the region.

It’s worth noting that Muizzu’s position as president remains unaffected by the parliamentary election results. A total of 368 candidates contested for five-year terms in Sunday’s vote, reflecting a significant political landscape change in the Maldives.

The landslide victory for Muizzu’s party signals a clear mandate from the Maldivian electorate, indicating a potential shift in foreign policy priorities and alliances in the coming years. As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve in the Indo-Pacific, the outcome of the elections will likely have ramifications on regional dynamics and diplomatic relations.

Partnership with India ‘most consequential’: US

May 25, 2023, 2:19 pm

The United States has said its partnership with India is one of its most consequential relationships and that Washington and New Delhi are working closely on “vital priorities”.

“We work with India closely on our most vital priorities, and we expect Ambassador Garcetti to be able to deepen the relationship between our countries and work on these matters of shared concern,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said.

Miller further said that US consular teams have taken cognizance of the visa issue. “We obviously recognise that it’s an area of concern and our consular teams have been making a huge push to process as many visa applications as possible in India, including those in visa categories that are key to the bilateral relationship. It is a top priority for our government, and I know it’s a top priority for our embassy in the country.”

Speaking of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit- slated for June 22- Miller stated that the Russia-Ukraine conflict has been a fixture in discussions between the PM and US President Joe Biden. “Certainly, the war in Ukraine will be one of the topics that is under discussion. It’s been one of the topics that have been under discussion in previous meetings with Prime Minister Modi, as it is in just about any conversation we have with a world leader at this time or has been the case for the past year.”

The White House recently said that PM Modi’s visit to the US will be an opportunity to “reaffirm the deep and close partnership” between both countries. Maintaining close ties with India is “very important to the [US] President,” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre said.

Pierre added that the visit is expected to strengthen both countries’ shared commitment to a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific as well as the resolve to evaluate strategic technology partnership, including in defence, clean energy and space.

“Delivering a new FTA with India”: Rishi Sunak

November 29, 2022, 12:32 pm

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Monday delivered his first major address on UK Foreign Policy. He emphasized the importance of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India that aims to strengthen the domestic economy.
This occurs as India and the UK continue their FTA negotiations, which started in January of this year and are intended to advance their trade and investment relations. Currently, both nations actively engage in bilateral trade as part of a multifaceted strategic cooperation.
“By 2050, the Indo-Pacific will deliver over half of global growth…compared with just a quarter from Europe and North America combined. That’s why we’re joining the Trans-Pacific trade deal, the CPTPP, delivering a new FTA with India, and pursuing one with Indonesia,” Sunak said in his address at the Lord Mayor’s Banquet at London’s Guildhall.
Regarding the second-largest economy in the world, Sunak argued that the “golden period” between Britain and China is “now finished” and that it is time to change the country’s policy towards it because its authoritarian government poses a systemic threat to UK values and interests.
Along with outlining his foreign policy views, he attacked China’s violations of human rights.
“Let’s be clear, the so-called ‘golden era’ is over, along with the naive idea that trade would lead to social and political reform. We recognise China poses a systemic challenge to our values and interests, a challenge that grows more acute as it moves towards even greater authoritarianism,” the UK PM said in his address.
Sunak also expressed support for Ukraine in his speech, adding that the UK is standing with the nation that has been devastated by war. He claimed that in order to address issues like security and immigration, Britain is also reviving its ties to the European Union.
The continuous demonstrations against COVID lockdowns in China have the UK Prime Minister worried. Sunak emphasised that the BBC correspondent was recently detained in China and claimed that the Chinese government “had opted to crack down more” as opposed to paying attention to the public’s concerns.