Defence chiefs from the United States, Australia, Japan, and the Philippines reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation as they gathered for their second joint meeting in Hawaii. Concerns about China’s activities in the South China Sea were at the forefront of their discussions. The meeting followed the quad countries’ inaugural joint naval exercises in the region, underscoring their shared commitment to international law and security in the Indo-Pacific.
U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized that the exercises enhanced their ability to work together effectively. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted plans to increase the frequency of joint defence exercises. The quad meeting sends a significant message about four democracies committed to upholding the rules-based international order. The United States, Australia, Japan, and the Philippines aim to strengthen their cooperation in the face of growing regional challenges.