Marking the 20th anniversary of their collaboration, the Quad nations—India, Australia, Japan, and the United States—have reaffirmed their shared vision for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. The grouping’s origins trace back to the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, which claimed nearly a quarter of a million lives and displaced 1.7 million people across 14 countries.

In a joint statement by the U.S. Secretary of State and the Foreign Ministers of India, Australia, and Japan, the Quad reflected on its beginnings as a disaster relief coalition. The statement emphasized the significant contributions of the four nations, which mobilized over 40,000 emergency responders to aid millions affected by the catastrophe. The leaders honored the memories of those lost and highlighted the enduring commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the Indo-Pacific.

“Our foundational commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief remains strong,” the statement read. “In 2024, we collectively supported disaster preparedness and life-saving relief efforts across the region, continuing to identify innovative ways to respond rapidly to crises.”

Over the past two decades, the Quad has evolved into a dynamic strategic partnership addressing a wide array of challenges in the Indo-Pacific. The joint statement highlighted efforts ranging from combating climate change, pandemics, and cancer to enhancing maritime security, counter-terrorism, STEM education, and cyber security. Leaders of the four nations have convened annually since 2021 to further their cooperative goals.

Highlighting the Quad’s vision for the region, the statement reaffirmed the group’s support for ASEAN centrality, Pacific-led regional architecture, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association. “We are committed to working together to meet the region’s future needs,” the statement added.

(Inputs from agencies)