The Quad, comprising India, the U.S., Australia, and Japan, recently convened at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), a significant focus of their discussion being Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). This is just one component of the agreements involving India and affecting its interests.
The Emergence and Significance of the QUAD
The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is an alliance consisting of four democracies. These nations – India, Australia, the US, and Japan – share common democratic values and principles. A fundamental tenet is the assurance of open and unhindered maritime trade and security.
The concept of the Quad emerged in 2007 under the leadership of the then Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Nevertheless, it remained largely inactive due to Australia’s withdrawal, allegedly as a result of Chinese pressure. Only in 2017 did the alliance take definitive shape with the four countries acknowledging their collective strength.
Opportunities for India in the Quad Arrangement
India stands to capitalize on numerous benefits by aligning with the Quad. Key among them is the potential to counter China’s influence. China’s economic activities are heavily dependent on the Indian Ocean trading routes, making them vulnerable to disruption in case of any aggression towards India. The Quad provides a robust and strategic platform for India to respond effectively.
Moreover, India can assert itself as a Net Security Provider, notably with the growing international interest in the Indo-Pacific region. Positioned at the heart of the Indo-Pacific geopolitical landscape, India can extend its influence beyond its geographical boundaries. Through the Quad, India can participate more actively in humanitarian aid and disaster relief, search and rescue missions, infrastructure development, and related initiatives.
Challenges Associated with the Quad
Despite its potential, the Quad faces certain challenges. Its vision and strategic mission remain undefined, hindering a clear path for cooperation. The emphasis on the Indo-Pacific region has led to a skewed focus on maritime interests, raising questions about the scope of cooperation in Asia-Pacific and Eurasian regions.
India’s aversion to a formal treaty alliance system further impedes the progress of a more robust Quad engagement. This is something that needs to be addressed to enhance cooperative efforts within the Quad.
The Way Forward with the Quad
The Quad nations need to undertake robust measures to clarify the Indo-Pacific Vision within an overarching framework, aimed at advancing everyone’s economic and security interests. As India has various other partners in the Indo-Pacific, it should vie for countries such as Indonesia and Singapore’s inclusion in the future.
Engaging strategic partners and consolidating its military and non-military tools will enable India to develop a comprehensive vision on the Indo-Pacific. This will allow it to ideate effectively on current and future maritime challenges, thereby cementing its role within the Quad.
