QUAD Takes Tough Stand on Indo-Pacific Security
The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue delivered one of its strongest collective messages yet after foreign ministers from India, the United States, Japan and Australia met in New Delhi under India’s chairmanship.
In a joint statement released after the meeting, the grouping stressed the importance of maintaining a “free and open Indo-Pacific” and warned against any unilateral attempts to alter the regional balance through force or coercion.
The statement said peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific depended on respecting international law and resolving disputes peacefully.
QUAD Opposes Hormuz Tolls, Shipping Disruptions
In a significant message linked to growing tensions in West Asia, the QUAD strongly backed the uninterrupted movement of global trade through key maritime routes including the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.
The grouping condemned attacks targeting commercial shipping vessels and opposed any future attempts to impose tolls or restrictions inconsistent with international maritime law.
The remarks come amid heightened international concern over security and trade disruptions in strategic sea routes critical for global oil supplies and commerce.
Sharp Message on South China Sea Activities
The QUAD also expressed serious concern over developments in the East China Sea and South China Sea, referring to what it described as “dangerous and coercive actions.”
Without directly naming China, the statement criticised aggressive maritime activities including unsafe manoeuvres, water cannon incidents, flares and attempts to block or ram vessels.
The grouping reiterated that maritime disputes must be settled peacefully under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling was also described as an important foundation for resolving regional disputes.
QUAD Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack
On terrorism, the QUAD issued a strong condemnation of cross-border terror activities and specifically referred to the April 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam as well as the Bondi Beach attack later in the year.
The grouping called for stronger global action against terror organisations, financiers, sponsors and affiliated networks operating across borders.
“We unequivocally condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” the statement said.
Cybercrime and Online Scam Networks Under Focus
The alliance additionally raised alarm over the rapid growth of online scam centres operating across parts of Southeast Asia.
According to the QUAD, such networks are increasingly linked to cybercrime, trafficking, financial fraud and organised criminal activities.
The countries pledged closer law enforcement coordination and stronger regulatory cooperation to tackle transnational crime syndicates.
India’s Maritime Role Highlighted
The QUAD also welcomed India’s expanding role in maritime coordination under the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness.
Special attention was given to India’s Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region in Gurugram, which is expected to play a key role in improving real-time maritime information sharing across the Indo-Pacific.
