Quad Ministers Voice Concerns Over Regional Stability, Reject China's Critique

The Foreign Ministers from the Quad countries—Australia, India, Japan, and the United States—held a significant meeting in New Delhi, expressing serious concerns over ongoing tensions in the East China Sea and the South China Sea. They collectively opposed any actions that could destabilize the region, particularly those using force or coercion.

During the meeting, the Quad issued a joint statement condemning coercive activities that interfere with offshore resource development and obstruct freedom of navigation and overflight. They highlighted the dangers posed by military maneuvers and expressed alarm over the militarization of disputed areas. China, for its part, dismissed the Quad's concerns as a formation of an exclusive bloc.

Responding to China's critique, the Ministry of External Affairs' Additional Secretary, Nagaraj Naidu, emphasized the Quad's commitment to transparency and practical cooperation. He noted the group's achievements, such as COVID-19 vaccine delivery and development projects in Africa and Fiji. Naidu reiterated that all Quad activities and documents remain publicly accessible.

(With inputs from agencies.)