Quad Group’s Commitment to Counter Maritime Disputes
During their meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, the foreign ministers of the Quad group—comprising India, the United States, Japan, and Australia—underscored their unwavering commitment to combating terrorism in all its manifestations. Simultaneously, they emphasized the imperative of adhering to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) when addressing maritime claims in the South and East China Seas.
Key Participants and Joint Readout
Representing India at this significant gathering was External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who had arrived in New York to engage in a week of meetings at the annual UN event. The foreign ministers jointly issued a readout, summarizing their shared commitments on various critical matters, including those about the Indo-Pacific, counterterrorism efforts, and the situation in Ukraine.
Upholding International Law and Maritime Peace
The Quad ministers reaffirmed the importance of upholding international law and respecting principles such as sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the maintenance of peace and security in the maritime domain—a foundation for the development and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region. They highlighted the need for peaceful dispute resolution and the significance of UNCLOS in addressing maritime claims in both the South and East China Seas.
Emphasis on UNCLOS and Maritime Claims
The Quad group strongly emphasized the role of international law, specifically referencing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), in dealing with challenges to the rules-based global maritime order. This included addressing issues related to maritime claims, encompassing the South and East China Seas. Notably, this statement echoed a similar sentiment expressed in the Quad Leaders’ joint statement from May, with the addition of the phrase “including concerning maritime claims.”
India’s Shift in Position on South China Sea Dispute
In a notable shift from its previous stance, India had, in June, called for adherence to the 2016 order of the Arbitral Tribunal. This order invalidated China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea. The Arbitral Tribunal had been established by the provisions of UNCLOS. This change in India’s posture was highlighted in the joint statement issued following a meeting between India and the Philippines during their fifth Joint Commission on bilateral cooperation.
Combating Terrorism and Ensuring Security
Additionally, the Quad ministers reaffirmed their resolute commitment to counterterrorism efforts. This encompassed preventing the movement of terrorists across international borders, countering the networks that finance terrorism, and eliminating safe havens for terrorists.
Holistic Approach to Counterterrorism
Lastly, the Quad foreign ministers stressed the need for a comprehensive and balanced approach to effectively combat terrorist activities. This approach would entail concerted efforts from both individual nations and the international community as a whole.
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