Despite new pact, US, Australia pledge commitment to Quad

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, September 17

Though the US and Australia have inked a new security partnership with the UK dubbed “AUKUS”, they signalled continued commitment to the Quad, a four-nation grouping that also includes India and Japan.

Also read: US, UK, Australia ink military pact to counter China, meet future threats

“The US and Australia are committed to regular Quad engagement at all levels, including the second leaders’ summit scheduled for September 24,” said a joint statement issued in Washington after a two plus two meeting between the Foreign and Defence Ministers of both countries late on Thursday.

The statement recognised the importance of the Quad as well as that of Japan especially in a Trilateral Infrastructure Partnership with the US and Australia.

The nod to Quad’s importance came along with substantial mention of Taiwan, a subject that was also aired during the last meeting of senior officials of Quad on August 12.

The ministers also commended the Quad Climate Working Group which, they said, was “an effective platform of collaboration” to help advance practical efforts to achieve climate goals across the Indo-Pacific region.

Though the US and Australia devoted a short sentence on the human rights situation in China, they dwelt on the situation in Xinjiang and spoke of Taiwan’s important role in the Indo-Pacific. They expressed their intent to strengthen ties with Taiwan and emphasised their support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations.

Aimed at securing Indo-Pacific: Australia

New Delhi: Australia on Friday said its decision to join a security alliance with the US and UK is aimed at developing capabilities that can contribute along with India and others in deterring behaviour that threatens security in Indo-Pacific. Australia’s High Commissioner to India Barry O’Farrell said China’s massive military modernisation programme, challenging strategic environment in Indo-Pacific and intensification of great power competition in the region prompted Canberra to become part of the partnership. PTI

AUKUS not against any country: White House

Washington: The new trilateral security alliance AUKUS is not about any one country, but aimed at advancing the strategic interests of the US, Britain and Australia and upholding the international rules-based order while promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, the White House has said amidst criticism against the pact from China. PTI