The Australian government said Quad stressed that it is vital that states ease tensions and not exacerbate long-standing disputes during a pandemic. The Quad also discussed developments in the South China Sea and, according to Australia, also said that states cannot enforce maritime claims inconsistent with international law, particularly UNCLOS.
The US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, called for collaboration against the “exploitation, corruption and coercion” of the Chinese Communist Party, as witnessed, among other places, in “the Himalayas.” Jaishankar was more discreet in his comments when he stated that the goal was to promote the security and economic interests of all countries that have legitimate and vital interests in the region.
While citing examples of Chinese adventurerism, Pompeo also mentioned the situation in the South China Sea, the East China Sea, the Mekong and the Taiwan Strait, in addition to mentioning the Himalayas when referring to the confrontation between India and China LAC. Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi confirmed in a subsequent statement that the ministers exchanged views on the situation in the South China Sea, where China is accused of using military power to intimidate other water claimants. in dispute.
“We remain committed to upholding the rules-based international order, backed by the rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in international seas, respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes,” he said. Jaishankar in his opening remarks.
According to the Indian reading, Jaishankar, Pompeo, Motegi and their Australian counterpart Marise Payne exchanged views on regional issues of mutual interest and issues related to connectivity; humanitarian assistance and disaster relief; maritime security and protection; health security and fight against terrorism. Jaishankar said it was a satisfaction that the Indo-Pacific The concept had gained “increasing acceptance”.
The ministers reiterated their strong support for the centrality of ASEAN and, while appreciating the value of these consultations at the ministerial level, agreed to hold them periodically. The third meeting is likely to be held next year. China had harshly criticized the announcement on the Quad’s second ministerial meeting last week, saying “no one should seek an exclusive clique.” According to Japan, the 4 countries also agreed to expand cooperation to other countries.
The United States also tried to corner China over Covid-19 and Pompeo said the crisis was made infinitely worse by the Chinese Communist Party cover-up. “The authoritarian nature of the regime led its leaders to lock up and silence the brave Chinese citizens who were raising the alarm,” he said.
The Indian government said in a statement that foreign ministers called for a coordinated response to challenges, including financial problems emanating from the pandemic, the need to share best practices to combat Covid-19, increase the resistance of the supply chains and improve access to affordable vaccines, medicines and medical equipment.
“You all know that India will assume membership in the UN Security Council next year. We look forward to seeking collective solutions to global challenges, including the global recovery from the pandemic and the reform of multilateral institutions,” said Jaishankar.
The United States also called for promoting transparency and countering misinformation in the fight against Covid-19.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has brought about a profound transformation globally. This year’s events have clearly demonstrated how imperative it is for like-minded countries to coordinate responses to the various challenges that the pandemic has highlighted,” he said. Jaishankar.
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