INVC NEWS
New Delhi , In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the highly anticipated Quad group leaders’ meeting in Hiroshima, Japan this week. This gathering of world leaders holds immense importance as it aims to strengthen collaboration and cooperation among the member countries – the United States, Japan, Australia, and India.
The Quad group, also known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, serves as a platform for these four nations to discuss and address regional and global challenges. With Prime Minister Modi’s participation, this meeting is expected to further enhance the strategic partnership and shared vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
Foreign Secretary Kwatra confirmed the Prime Minister’s visit, stating that Prime Minister Modi will depart for Japan on the morning of May 19. As part of his visit, he will also be attending the annual summit of the G7, a group comprising developed economies from around the world. However, the focus will primarily be on the Quad meeting, where Prime Minister Modi will join his counterparts – US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
It is noteworthy that the meeting of Quad leaders initially scheduled to take place in Sydney was canceled due to President Biden’s decision to postpone his visit to Australia. This change in plans was prompted by the urgent need to address the severe economic crisis facing the country. However, the leaders have swiftly adapted, and Hiroshima has been chosen as the new venue for the Quad meeting, capitalizing on the presence of all four leaders in Japan.
The Foreign Secretary highlighted that despite the change in location, the fundamental aspects of the Quad meeting remain unaltered. The discussions will revolve around cooperation, collaboration, and the previously agreed-upon agenda items from previous meetings. The leaders will delve into various topics, including ways to bolster economic ties, enhance maritime security, promote sustainable development, and advance the Indo-Pacific region’s interests.
On Tuesday, President Biden expressed his decision to minimize travel commitments in order to focus on important domestic affairs. He conveyed this message to Prime Minister Albanese of Australia, affirming his understanding of the prevailing circumstances. President Biden is currently engaging in extensive talks with opposition Republican Party members to prevent a potential US debt default, marking a historic first. As a result, he made the decision to cancel his trip to Australia, citing the need for conclusive discussions and the prevailing uncertainty.
In response to these developments, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the Quad leaders of Australia, America, India, and Japan would convene during the G7 summit in Hiroshima later this week. This consolidation of their presence at the G7 event presents a valuable opportunity for the leaders to exchange views, deepen strategic partnerships, and collectively address common challenges.
The Quad group continues to gain momentum as an influential platform for dialogue and cooperation. Its members share a commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. The meeting in Hiroshima reaffirms the resolve of these nations to collaborate and contribute to a secure and inclusive future.
