External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar participated in first Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) ministerial meeting under new Trump administration on January 21, 2025. high-level diplomatic meeting was held at U.S. State Department’s Foggy Bottom headquarters, marking a significant step in reaffirming Quad’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in Indo-Pacific region.
Jaishankar was joined by his counterparts, Penny Wong from Australia, Iwaya Takeshi from Japan, and newly-appointed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. discussions aimed at deepening strategic ties among four nations, addressing key regional challenges, and ensuring a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Key Highlights of Quad Ministerial Meeting
meeting, described as “productive” by EAM Jaishankar, was Secretary Rubio’s first major diplomatic engagement after his appointment. Below are key highlights:
Event | Details |
Date and Venue | January 21, 2025, at Foggy Bottom headquarters, U.S. State Department |
Participants | S. Jaishankar (India), Penny Wong (Australia), Iwaya Takeshi (Japan), Marco Rubio (U.S.) |
Focus Areas | Indo-Pacific security, regional stability, deeper cooperation, and strategic partnerships |
Outcome | Agreement to intensify collaboration and address global uncertainties collectively |
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar emphasized significance of meeting happening so soon after inauguration of Trump administration, saying it reflected Quad’s priority in global diplomacy. He tweeted:
“Significant that Quad FMM took place within hours of inauguration of Trump administration. This underlines priority it has in foreign policy of its member states.”
Jaishankar also highlighted Quad’s vision to continue as a force for global good amid a volatile world, stating that discussions reaffirmed collective commitment to a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
First Bilateral Talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Following Quad ministerial meeting, Jaishankar held his first bilateral meeting with Marco Rubio as U.S. Secretary of State. hour-long discussion reviewed broad India-U.S. partnership, with both sides acknowledging importance of advancing their strategic collaboration.
“Delighted to meet @secrubio for his first bilateral meeting after assumption of office as Secretary of State. Reviewed our extensive bilateral partnership, of which @secrubio has been a strong advocate,” Jaishankar tweeted.
meeting included India’s Ambassador to U.S., Vinay Kwatra, and focused on:
- Strengthening bilateral economic and security ties.
- Advancing cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, technology, and counter-terrorism.
- Shared views on regional stability and strategic alignment in Indo-Pacific.
Meeting with U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz
In addition to engaging with Secretary Rubio, Jaishankar met U.S. National Security Advisor (NSA) Mike Waltz at White House. This meeting underscored significance of strengthening bilateral ties for global stability and mutual benefit.
Jaishankar’s tweet after meeting read:
“Great to meet NSA @michaelgwaltz again this afternoon. Discussed strengthening our friendship to ensure mutual benefit and enhance global stability and prosperity. Looking forward to working together on an active and outcome-oriented agenda.”
conversation delved into pressing global issues, including countering authoritarianism, enhancing maritime security, and fostering innovation-driven cooperation.
India’s Diplomatic Priorities and Regional Focus
India’s engagement in Quad reflects its focus on leveraging multilateral platforms to advance its strategic interests. partnership aligns with India’s Act East Policy, aiming to enhance regional cooperation and security in Indo-Pacific.
meeting also comes on heels of Jaishankar’s recent diplomatic engagements, including his visit to Spain on January 13-14 for key bilateral talks. These initiatives signify India’s proactive approach to fostering stronger international relations and economic partnerships.
Implications of Quad Ministerial Meeting
Quad ministerial meeting holds significant geopolitical implications. Key outcomes include:
- Reinforcement of Indo-Pacific Security: Quad nations reiterated their commitment to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, countering coercive actions, and promoting a rules-based international order.
- Economic and Technological Cooperation: discussions emphasized need for collaboration on critical technologies, infrastructure development, and resilient supply chains.
- Global Leadership in Crisis Management: Quad seeks to position itself as a leader in addressing global challenges, including climate change, public health, and humanitarian assistance.
- Enhanced U.S.-India Relations: bilateral discussions between Jaishankar and Rubio set tone for deepening India-U.S. ties, a cornerstone of Quad cooperation.
Table: Key Participants and Their Statements
Name | Country | Statement |
S. Jaishankar | India | “Quad will continue to be a force for global good.” |
Marco Rubio | U.S. | No public statement yet; emphasized strong advocacy for India-U.S. partnership. |
Penny Wong | Australia | Reiterated Australia’s commitment to regional stability and economic resilience. |
Iwaya Takeshi | Japan | Highlighted importance of collective action to ensure maritime security in Indo-Pacific. |
Follow-Up and Future Plans
meeting underscored Quad’s role as a crucial platform for addressing regional and global challenges. outcomes of discussions are expected to pave way for:
- Enhanced joint military exercises in Indo-Pacific.
- Collaboration on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
- A more robust and coordinated response to regional disputes and crises.
EAM Jaishankar’s engagements in Washington, D.C., reflect India’s evolving role as a key player in global diplomacy. His leadership in Quad ministerial discussions showcases India’s commitment to fostering peace, stability, and prosperity across Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information and statements made by key participants. Any views expressed herein are not intended to reflect official stance of any government or organization mentioned. accuracy of reported events and quotes has been cross-verified to best of our ability.