The recent Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) in Tokyo brought together Australia, India, Japan, and the United States to address pressing global issues, highlighting their collective concerns over conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Myanmar. The joint statement issued after the meeting reflects the Quad’s commitment to international law, humanitarian principles, and regional stability.
Ukraine: Seeking a Just and Lasting Peace
The Quad Foreign Ministers expressed their deepest concern over the ongoing war in Ukraine and its severe humanitarian consequences. They reiterated the need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in accordance with international law and the principles of the UN Charter, emphasizing the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ministers noted the negative impacts of the conflict on global food and energy security, particularly affecting developing and least developed countries. And condemned the use or threat of nuclear weapons as unacceptable, underscoring the importance of upholding international law and refraining from the threat or use of force against any state’s territorial integrity and political independence.
Myanmar: Addressing a Worsening Crisis
The situation in Myanmar remains a significant concern for the Quad. The ministers highlighted the worsening political, security, and humanitarian crisis in the country, particularly in Rakhine State. They called for an immediate cessation of violence, the release of unjustly detained individuals, and the provision of safe and unhindered humanitarian assistance. The Quad reaffirmed its support for ASEAN’s leadership in resolving the crisis through the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus and the efforts of the ASEAN Chair and Special Envoy to Myanmar. The ministers emphasized the need to prevent the flow of arms and dual-use materials, including jet fuel, to Myanmar, and expressed their commitment to working with all stakeholders to find a sustainable solution led by the people of Myanmar.
Middle East: Condemning Terrorism and Humanitarian Crisis
The Quad ministers shared a strong interest in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East, unequivocally condemning the terror attacks of October 7, 2023. They expressed deep concern over the large-scale loss of civilian lives and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, affirming the necessity of securing the release of all hostages held by Hamas. The ministers called for an immediate and prolonged ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance and compliance with international humanitarian law. They welcomed UNSC Resolution S/RES/2735 (2024) and urged all parties to work towards an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilians, including aid workers. The Quad reiterated its commitment to a two-state solution, enabling both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security.
North Korea: Denuclearization and Regional Stability
The Quad’s joint statement also addressed concerns over North Korea’s destabilizing actions. The ministers condemned North Korea’s ballistic missile launches and nuclear weapons pursuit, highlighting the violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). They reaffirmed their commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and urged North Korea to engage in substantive dialogue. The ministers stressed the importance of preventing the proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies related to North Korea and called on all UN Member States to abide by the relevant UNSCRs.
Commitment to International Law and Multilateralism
The Quad ministers emphasized their commitment to upholding the UN Charter and the principles of international law, which form the foundation for global peace, stability, and prosperity. They underscored the importance of a rules-based international order and reiterated their commitment to strengthening multilateral institutions, including the UN. The ministers called for comprehensive UN reforms to make the Security Council more representative, transparent, effective, and credible, advocating for greater permanent representation for Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
A Unified Stance for Global Peace
The Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting highlighted the group’s unified stance on addressing global conflicts and promoting peace and stability. By focusing on the crises in Ukraine, Myanmar, and the Middle East, the Quad underscored its commitment to international law, humanitarian principles, and multilateral cooperation.