WASHINGTON — The United States, Australia, India, and Japan have committed to an enhanced collaboration on maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as joint ventures related to critical minerals and rare earths essential for high-tech manufacturing. The foreign ministers from these four nations, forming the “Quad,” assembled in Washington to strategize as the U.S. government aims to bolster its influence in the region to counterbalance China’s growing presence, amid ongoing trade and defense tensions.
During the high-level meetings, Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for the Quad to act as more than a forum for discussions and to ensure continued focus on commerce and trade to maintain its relevance. Consequently, the ministers announced the launch of the “Quad Critical Minerals Initiative.” This initiative is intended to enhance economic security and resilience by diversifying and securing critical mineral supply chains, although further details on the program remain undisclosed.
The statement released by the Quad highlighted concerns about the abrupt fluctuations and future reliability of essential supply chains for critical minerals. It also noted apprehensions regarding the use of non-traditional market strategies involving these minerals and associated technologies. Though the statement did not explicitly name China, the nation’s extensive control over critical mineral resources has been a persistent concern for the U.S. and its allied countries.
The ministers also voiced worry over escalating disputes in the East and South China Seas, where China’s assertive stance on maritime and territorial claims has heightened tensions with neighboring countries. They reaffirmed their objections to unilateral measures that attempt to shift the current conditions through force or coercion. Particular issues highlighted included threats to offshore resource development, freedom of navigation and overflight interruptions, and risky maneuvers involving military, coast guard, and maritime militia forces in the region.
Additionally, condemnation was directed at North Korea for its ongoing ballistic missile activities, nuclear weapon advancements, and cyber-malfeasance. The statement also subtly reproached nations involved in military cooperation with North Korea, indicating that such alliances undermine the global non-proliferation efforts, a pointed reference likely aimed at North Korea’s engagements amid the conflict in Ukraine.