EAM’s remarks to the Press before the Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting (July 01, 2025)

I am very pleased to be back in DC for the second time this year for a Quad Foreign Ministers meeting.

2. Let me begin by saying that we are all committed to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. To that end, our endeavours are devoted to promoting a rules-based international order. It is essential that nations of the Indo-Pacific have the freedom of choice, so essential to make right decisions on development and security.

3. In the last few months, we have made significant progress in Quad initiatives. They include the maritime domain, logistics, education and political coordination. We will be discussing that in greater detail.

4. The working of the Quad is also being made more efficient through streamlining the Working Groups. A more cohesive, nimble and focused Quad will certainly help deliver better.

5. Quad is about deepening our convergence and expanding our common ground. I value our consultations on different dimensions of the Indo-Pacific in that regard. A lot is happening in the world, and I am sure that our exchange of views will be very valuable for all of us.

6. A word about terrorism in the light of our recent experience - the world must display zero tolerance. Victims and perpetrators must never be equated. And India has every right to defend its people against terrorism, and we will exercise that right. We expect our Quad partners to understand and appreciate that.

7. India plans to host the next Quad Summit. We have some proposals on how to make that productive. I am sure so do our partners. We will discuss and I am sure we will agree.

8. Once again, I thank Secretary Rubio for hosting us today and I look forward to our discussions.

Thank you.

Washington D.C.
July 01, 2025