Context: Quad countries recently reviewed situation in Indo- Pacific region.

The participants also supported an ASEAN-led mechanisms for the regional architecture for the region.

Background:

The 10- nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is considered one of the most influential groupings in the region and India and several other countries including the US, China, Japan and Australia are its dialogue partners.

What is Quad grouping?

The quadrilateral formation includes Japan, India, United States and Australia.

All four nations find a common ground of being the democratic nations and common interests of unhindered maritime trade and security.

The idea was first mooted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2007. However, the idea couldn’t move ahead with Australia pulling out of it.

It was revived in 2017 and is being viewed as response to increased Chinese economic and military power.

Significance of the grouping:

Quad is an opportunity for like-minded countries to share notes and collaborate on projects of mutual interest.

Members share a vision of an open and free Indo-Pacific.

It is one of the many avenues for interaction among India, Australia, Japan and the US and should not be seen in an exclusive context.

Way ahead:

• Quad is an opportunity for like-minded countries to share notes and collaborate on projects of mutual interest.
• All four countries share a vision of an open and free Indo-Pacific. Each is involved in development and economic projects as well as in promoting maritime domain awareness and maritime security.
• The Quad grouping is one of the many avenues for interaction among India, Australia, Japan and the US and should not be seen in an exclusive context. Quad should not be seen in any comparative or in an exclusive context.