ISTANBUL

Representatives from the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue emphasized their commitment to ensuring a "free and open" Asia-Pacific region during a news conference Tuesday before their meeting hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Rubio highlighted the partnership's evolution, describing it as a relationship that has gained significant momentum in recent months. He emphasized the group's shared priorities and the importance of concrete coordinated actions among the strategic partners and allies.

"The next step in this great partnership is to actually begin to see concrete actions and steps being taken in conjunction with one another," Rubio said, noting that many countries will benefit from the collaboration.

He stressed that the cooperation extends beyond security matters to include economic development, particularly diversifying global supply chains for critical minerals. Rubio emphasized the importance of access not only to raw materials but also to processing and refining capabilities.

India commits to ensuring free open Asia-Pacific

Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar emphasized the group's commitment to promoting international law and regional freedom of choice. He highlighted significant progress in Quad initiatives across the maritime domain, logistics, education and political coordination in recent months.

"It is essential that nations of the Indo-Pacific have the freedom of choice, so essential to make right decisions on development and security," Jaishankar said, adding India plans to host the next Quad summit.

"We're all committed to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific," he said.

Australia acknowledges regional challenges

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong stressed the partnership's critical importance for the region and the world amid global tensions.

"We meet against the backdrop of conflict and of escalating competition," Wong said, emphasizing the need to harness collective strength for regional peace and stability through practical cooperation on technology supply chains and maritime security.

Japan emphasizes regional responsibility

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya highlighted the four countries' role as major regional powers with important responsibilities for peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific.

“I'm looking forward to engaging in strategic discussions on the current international situation," he said, noting regional stability is "essential for the prosperity of the international community.”

The Quad represents a strategic grouping focused on cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.