6th Quad Summit 2024 (GS Paper 2, IR)
Introduction
- The 6th Quad Summit held in Delaware, USA, marked a significant step in the ongoing collaboration among Australia, India, Japan, and the United States.
- This summit, notable for being the fourth in-person meeting of Quad leaders, showcased the group's commitment to addressing critical issues in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key Highlights
Health Security
- The Quad emphasized health security through its Quad Health Security Partnership (QHSP), initiated in 2023.
- A new initiative, the Quad Cancer Moonshot, aims to improve cervical cancer treatment.
- The US has pledged over USD 84.5 million to enhance pandemic preparedness across fourteen Indo-Pacific nations, bolstering capabilities to prevent and respond to infectious diseases.
Maritime Security
- To enhance maritime capabilities, the Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI) was launched, aimed at improving regional security.
- The Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA), established in 2022, continues to monitor illegal activities.
- Additionally, the Indo-Pacific Logistics Network seeks to streamline disaster response operations, while a Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission is scheduled for 2025 to enhance interoperability among the navies.
Infrastructure Development
- The Quad introduced principles for Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), focusing on security and inclusivity.
- The Quad Ports of the Future Partnership aims to bolster port infrastructure and enhance regional connectivity, with plans for a Regional Ports and Transportation Conference in Mumbai in 2025.
- Furthermore, over USD 140 million has been committed to undersea cable projects, targeting primary telecommunication connectivity for Pacific island nations by 2025.
Technological Collaboration
The Quad is advancing critical technologies with several initiatives:
- Open Radio Access Network (RAN) deployment in Palau is underway to foster secure telecommunications.
- The AI-ENGAGE Initiative is exploring AI applications in agriculture.
- The BioExplore Initiative focuses on utilizing AI for ecosystem studies and innovation in clean energy.
- A Memorandum of Cooperation was finalized to enhance semiconductor supply chain collaboration.
Climate and Clean Energy
- The Quad is enhancing climate resilience through improved early warning systems and a Clean Energy Supply Chain Diversification Program.
- India has committed USD 2 million for solar projects across several Pacific nations, reinforcing its role in sustainable development.
Cybersecurity and Space
- The Quad Action Plan has been developed to protect undersea telecommunications, fostering a resilient information environment.
- Quad countries are also collaborating on space situational awareness (SSA) to ensure the long-term sustainability of space activities.
Counter-Terrorism and People-to-People Initiatives
- The summit addressed counter-terrorism efforts, particularly concerning the use of unmanned aerial systems and other emerging threats.
- In a move to enhance educational ties, India announced 50 Quad scholarships for students from the Indo-Pacific to study engineering in India.
Conclusion
- The 6th Quad Summit reinforced the group's dedication to enhancing health security, combating climate change, and strengthening cybersecurity in the Indo-Pacific.
- By fostering innovation and collaboration, the Quad aims to build a resilient, prosperous region that contributes to global stability and sustainable development.
- This multifaceted approach reflects the Quad's commitment to addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals in an increasingly interconnected world.
