Quad Grouping: US State Department Document

The US State Department has released a significant document focusing on the Quad grouping, comprising India, Japan, Australia, and the US. The document emphasizes the cooperation needed to tackle challenges within the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Areas of Cooperation

• Maritime Security:
  Emphasizes the importance of maritime security in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
• Economic Prosperity and Security:
  Focuses on enhancing economic ties and ensuring security within the region.
• Critical and Emerging Technologies:
  Highlights the advancement in areas such as AI, technical standards, biotechnology, and cybersecurity.
• Humanitarian Assistance:
  Stresses the need for humanitarian assistance as a key factor in regional cooperation.

Omissions

• The document notably omits references to counterterrorism ties, which are a priority for India.

IT, Supply Chains, and Security

• Resilient Supply Chains:
  Quad aims to promote resilient supply chains and quality infrastructure projects.
• Trusted Information and Communications Technology:
  Advances in trusted ICT infrastructure are a focus, with expanded work on AI and cybersecurity.