Tue Dec 31 07:13:48 UTC 2024: ## Quad Nations Renew Commitment to Free and Open Indo-Pacific
**New Delhi, December 31, 2024** – Marking the 20th anniversary of their cooperation, the Quad nations (India, the US, Australia, and Japan) reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. In a joint statement released today by the Quad Foreign Ministers, the group highlighted their collaborative efforts in disaster relief and preparedness, referencing their initial joint response to the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.
The statement emphasized the Quad’s ongoing work to address future regional needs, a commitment underscored by China’s growing assertiveness in the area. The ministers reiterated their unwavering support for ASEAN’s centrality and unity, as well as their respect for Pacific-led regional architectures, including the Pacific Islands Forum and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Twenty years ago, following the 2004 tsunami which claimed nearly 250,000 lives and displaced 1.7 million across 14 countries, the four nations mobilized over 40,000 emergency responders. The statement highlighted that this commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief remains a cornerstone of Quad cooperation, with continued joint efforts in disaster preparedness and relief across the Indo-Pacific. The Quad nations pledged to explore new ways to respond rapidly to future humanitarian crises and disasters.
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