- Author : Shreya Khanna
In the realm of global diplomacy, where power and strategy intermingle, the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue has emerged as a compelling narrative. Initially formed in 2004 to coordinate disaster relief following the Indian Ocean tsunami, the Quad brought together India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. Over the years, this partnership has evolved significantly. Its revival in 2017 signaled not just a renewal but a reinvention, reflecting the evolving landscape of global power and the enduring appeal of a “free and open Indo-Pacific.”
The Quad defies the conventions of traditional alliances. It lacks the formal structures of NATO or the economic integration of the European Union. Instead, its strength lies in flexibility and shared values—democracy, adherence to international law, and freedom of navigation. Military cooperation further underscores this commitment, with joint naval exercises like Malabar growing in scope to symbolize a rules-based order. Yet, the Quad falls short of formalizing a defense alliance. The reasons are manifold: India’s tradition of strategic autonomy, economic interdependencies with China, and the desire to avoid unnecessary provocation. Critics argue that this informal structure limits its potential, labelling its initiatives as largely symbolic rather than transformative. Yet, symbolism in the realm of international relations, can wield immense power. It is a declaration of intent, acting as a subtle yet powerful counterbalance to China’s increasing assertiveness.
Beijing’s rise has been both a catalyst and a challenge for the Quad. Under President Xi Jinping, China has discarded Deng Xiaoping’s doctrine of “hide your strength, bide your time.” Its actions—from militarizing artificial islands in the South China Sea to imposing trade sanctions on Australia and clashing with Indian forces along the Himalayan border—have redefined regional dynamics. However it is important to note that in its early days, China dismissed the Quad as inconsequential. In 2018, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi famously compared the alliance to “sea foam in the Pacific or Indian Ocean”—transient and destined to vanish. Contrary to this characterization, the foam has not faded; rather, it has consolidated into a significant wave of momentum and influence. Since 2021, the Quad has convened four leadership summits, highlighting its increasing importance and resilience. Additionally, it has launched initiatives such as the Blue Dot Network and the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII). These efforts aim to provide an alternative vision for the region—one centered on infrastructure development that is sustainable, transparent, and free from coercion.
Under the Biden administration, the Quad has expanded its horizons. It now focusses on climate change, health security, technological innovation, and supply chain resilience. These efforts reflect a modern understanding of security that goes beyond military strength, to tackle economic and environmental challenges. Efforts like the Quad Climate Change, Mitigation Package and the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness exemplify this broadened perspective.
Japan has also been a pivotal force in the Quad’s resurgence. Under the late Shinzo Abe, Tokyo championed a regional order that counters China’s strategic dominance. Japan’s defense collaborations with the U.S., along with its expanding relationships with Australia and India, underscore its proactive stance. Likewise, Australia’s strategic priorities have evolved, as seen through its involvement in AUKUS and its focus on enhancing military capabilities.
Out of all the four countries, India’s role within the Quad is perhaps the most nuanced. Traditionally rooted in a policy of non-alignment, India has avoided formal alliances. However, ongoing border tensions with China and its opposition to the BRI have drawn it closer to Quad members. Additionally, India’s strategic interests extend beyond the immediate scope of the Quad, including areas like the Persian Gulf and the western Indian Ocean. This broader focus adds layers of complexity but also enriches the Quad’s perspective.
The Quad’s informal nature is both its strength and its Achilles’ heel. Flexibility enables it to adapt to shifting geopolitical landscapes, but it also raises questions about its long-term coherence. Can it articulate a unified vision? Will it expand its membership? Can it establish a robust economic pillar to counter China’s dominance? These are questions that the Quad must answer to sustain its relevance.
As the Quad looks ahead, its future trajectory will likely depend on China’s behavior. Beijing’s actions—whether it continues to undermine regional norms or adopts a more conciliatory approach—will shape the Quad’s evolution. Currently, the Quad serves as a practical, though not perfect, means of promoting regional stability. In a world where alliances are often characterized by rigid structures and zero-sum dynamics, its informal framework enables it to tackle common issues while acknowledging the distinct priorities of its members.
Bibliography
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3) The Indian Express. (2023, May 22). The Quad’s agenda may seem small, but its achievements are not. The Indian Express. https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/the-quads-agenda-may-seem-small-but-its-achievements-are-not-9582771/
4) Defense Priorities. (2021, March 24). What the Quad is, is not, and should not be. Defense Priorities. https://www.defensepriorities.org/briefs/what-the-quad-is-is-not-and-should-not-be/
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