Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the significance of the Quad alliance’s shared democratic principles in tackling global tensions. During his three-day visit to the United States, he emphasized that the Quad—consisting of India, Australia, Japan, and the US—will remain a long-term partner for Indo-Pacific nations, promoting mutual growth and stability, as noted by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Sunday.
At the Quad Leaders Summit in Delaware, Modi outlined India’s vision for global peace and security, expressing gratitude to US President Joe Biden for his role in strengthening the Quad. He asserted that the alliance is committed to a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific and does not target any specific nation, but rather advocates for a rules-based international order and peaceful conflict resolution.
Highlighting the current global tensions, Modi mentioned the Quad’s collaborative efforts in health, security, emerging technologies, climate change, and capacity building. He also expressed enthusiasm about hosting the Quad Leaders Summit in India in 2025.
In discussions with President Biden, the leaders explored ways to enhance the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Biden noted that the partnership is stronger than ever. A key outcome of their meeting was the US’s decision to return 297 stolen or trafficked Indian antiquities, which Modi publicly thanked Biden for. This brings the total recovered since 2016 to 578, the highest for any country, coinciding with the signing of their first ‘Cultural Property Agreement’ to combat antiquities trafficking.
Additionally, Modi met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to discuss strengthening India-Japan ties and explored deepening relations with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, reaffirming their commitment to regional peace and stability.
Later, Modi is set to address the Indian community in New York and meet with executives from leading US companies to discuss collaboration in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and semiconductors.