Quad foreign ministers discuss Indo-Pacific security in Manila

Foreign ministers from India, Australia, Japan, and the United States held a joint meeting today in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, to discuss ways to enhance security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

In a joint statement following the meeting, the ministers reiterated their countries' commitment to supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the importance of ASEAN unity and its central role in the region.

The statement noted that the meeting addressed support for the implementation of the "ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific" and explored ways to strengthen cooperation with ASEAN member states in addressing regional challenges.

Boosting cooperation in key sectors

The ministers added that collaboration between the Quad countries and ASEAN covers maritime security, economic prosperity, emerging technologies, humanitarian assistance, and emergency response.

They also stressed that peace and stability at sea are fundamental to the security and prosperity of the region.