Mon Feb 03 23:08:06 IST 2025: ## Japan Underscores India’s Crucial Role in Quad, Highlights Shared Concerns on Taiwan

**New Delhi, February 4, 2025** – Japan’s envoy to India, Ono Keiichi, emphasized India’s indispensable role in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), asserting that the framework “cannot exist” without India’s participation. Speaking at the Observer Research Foundation on Monday, Mr. Ono described the Quad – comprising Japan, India, Australia, and the U.S. – as a vital instrument for fostering an open and free Indo-Pacific.

Mr. Ono highlighted the significant benefits for India through Quad engagement, emphasizing shared strategic interests. He expressed optimism for the upcoming Quad summit in India later this year, promising Japan’s full cooperation for its success. He cited the 2021 Quad vaccine initiative as a successful example of the group’s positive impact, delivering tangible benefits to participating nations and regional neighbors. The envoy stressed that the Quad’s initiatives aim to address shared concerns and promote mutual interests across the region.

Regarding Taiwan, Mr. Ono underscored the potential disruption to global supply chains, significantly impacting both Japan and India’s economies, should a conflict erupt. He stressed the shared interest in maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, noting that China holds the key to peace in the region. He also lauded Taiwan as a valuable partner and reliable collaborator for India, particularly in crucial emerging technologies.

The envoy further emphasized the vital role of U.S. engagement in the Indo-Pacific for regional stability and prosperity, highlighting its importance in developing secure supply chains. He also highlighted the robust economic relationship between Japan and India, citing $7 billion in Japanese Foreign Direct Investment in 2023 and Japan’s position as the second-largest equity investor in India over the past two decades. Finally, Mr. Ono noted Japan’s need for skilled Indian workers to address its aging population. The comments followed a recent Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Washington D.C., where a joint statement reaffirmed the commitment to international law, economic opportunity, and regional peace and security.

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