
Quad to be force for global good: S. Jaishankar in US
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar participated in the Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Washington DC on Tuesday, discussing “different dimensions” of ensuring a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific. He tweeted that “Quad will continue to be a force of global good.”
In addition to EAM Jaishankar, the Quad Ministers included new US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australia’s Penny Wong, and Japan’s Takeshi Iwaya. The group agreed to intensify collaboration among the member countries.
EAM Jaishankar described the meeting as “significant,” taking place just a day after Donald Trump took office as the 47th US President. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “Attended a productive Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting today in Washington DC. Thank @secrubio for hosting us and FMs @SenatorWong and Takeshi Iwaya for their participation.”
Jaishankar highlighted the importance of the Quad meeting, stating, “Significant that the Quad FMM took place within hours of the inauguration of the Trump administration. This underlines the priority it has in the foreign policy of its member states. Our wide-ranging discussions addressed different dimensions of ensuring a free, open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”
The Quad group emphasized the need for broader thinking, deepening the agenda, and intensifying collaboration. Jaishankar added, “The meeting today sends a clear message that in an uncertain and volatile world, the Quad will continue to be a force for global good.”
The Quad is a strategic grouping aimed at countering China’s military aggression in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims in its entirety.
EAM Jaishankar also held a bilateral meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which marked their first-ever meeting since Rubio took office. Both leaders reviewed the bilateral relationship and discussed regional and global issues. Jaishankar tweeted, “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. Also, exchanged views on a wide range of regional and global issues. Look forward to closely working with him to advance our strategic cooperation.”
Additionally, Jaishankar met with US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, stating he looked forward to “working together on an active and outcome-oriented agenda.” He also tweeted, “Great to meet NSA @michaelgwaltz again this afternoon. Discussed strengthening our friendship to ensure mutual benefit and enhance global stability and prosperity.”
Jaishankar, who attended Trump’s inauguration at the Capitol Rotunda, called it a great honor to represent India at the ceremony. He also carried a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Trump. Jaishankar was seated in the front row at the event, alongside Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa, signaling India’s commitment to fostering close ties with the Trump administration.