The Quad Foreign Ministers of the United States, India, Australia, and Japan marked the 20th anniversary of their cooperation, recalling their first joint effort in 2004 to respond to the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. This collaboration laid the foundation for the Quad, a diplomatic partnership committed to fostering a free, open, stable, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.

A joint statement of the Quad Foreign Minsters issued by the US Department of State on December 30, 2024, noted “The tsunami was one of the worst disasters in history, claiming the lives of nearly a quarter million people and displacing 1.7 million across 14 countries,” adding “Together our four countries contributed over 40,000 emergency responders, working with other partners across the Indo-Pacific region to support millions of people affected by the catastrophe. We honor the memories of those no longer with us and recognize the survivors and the families of those who were lost.”

In their statement, the ministers emphasized their enduring commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, highlighting their collective support in 2024 for disaster preparedness and life-saving efforts across the region. They pledged to continue exploring innovative ways to respond swiftly to crises.

The ministers underscored what began as a disaster response has evolved into a robust partnership addressing global challenges. The Quad now collaborates on issues like climate change, health, quality infrastructure, STEM education, maritime security, counter-terrorism, and emerging technologies. Since 2021, Quad leaders have met annually to strengthen their impact across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific.

“As four partners, we share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous, underpinned by effective regional institutions. We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEAN’s centrality and unity as well as mainstreaming and implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific,” the statement added. “We respect Pacific-led regional architecture, foremost the Pacific Islands Forum. We are also steadfast in our support for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the region’s premier organization.”

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