Image Credits : Time
At the 17th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF), U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti emphasized India’s pivotal position within the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, commonly known as the Quad. Garcetti’s remarks underscored India’s role as the primary driver of the strategic partnership, with the United States positioned alongside as a supportive partner.
During his address in Jaipur, Garcetti employed a vivid analogy likening the Quad’s dynamics to a shared journey, where each member country plays a distinct role. He described India as being firmly in the “driver’s seat” of the Quad, with the U.S. providing corrective guidance akin to a steering wheel. Japan, according to Garcetti, serves as an enthusiastic navigator, while Australia is keenly engaged, ensuring the well-being of all participants.
The Quad, comprising India, the U.S., Australia, and Japan, aims to enhance economic, diplomatic, and military cooperation among its member nations. Garcetti’s portrayal of India’s leading role within the partnership reflects the growing significance of the country’s strategic positioning in the Indo-Pacific region.
Addressing the audience at the JLF session titled “Heart of the Matter: Quad and the New Indo-Pacific Vision,” Garcetti emphasized India’s agency in defining the nature and direction of the Quad’s diplomatic endeavours. He expressed his admiration for the diverse roles played by each member nation and expressed a willingness to assume a less prominent role in future engagements.
Highlighting the potential of the Quad as a global model for strategic cooperation, Garcetti praised the partnership’s resilience and effectiveness, contrasting it favourably with traditional multilateral institutions like the United Nations. He emphasized the tangible progress made by the Quad in areas such as semiconductor technology, artificial intelligence, and space exploration, showcasing its practical achievements beyond mere rhetoric.
In addition to Garcetti’s insights, former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull offered perspective on the Quad’s evolution since its inception in 2007. Turnbull emphasized the common values shared by Quad members, including a commitment to freedom, sovereignty, and democracy. Despite acknowledging differences in strategic priorities among member countries, Turnbull emphasized the importance of standing united in defence of shared principles.
The reinstatement of the Quad in 2017, after a hiatus of ten years, marked a significant response to China’s assertiveness in global affairs. Australian Ambassador to India Philip Green and former Indian foreign secretary Shyam Saran also participated in the session, underscoring the Quad’s relevance in addressing contemporary geopolitical challenges.
As the Quad continues to evolve, discussions at the Jaipur Literature Festival provided valuable insights into the partnership’s objectives and achievements. The session highlighted India’s central role in shaping the Quad’s future trajectory, reaffirming the group’s commitment to promoting stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.