External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar is set to visit the United States from June 30 to July 2, 2025, at the invitation of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The primary purpose of his visit is to participate in the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting (QFMM) scheduled for July 1 in Washington, D.C.
The Quad, a diplomatic partnership between Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, is committed to supporting an open, stable, prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific region. The upcoming meeting aims to build upon discussions from the previous QFMM held in Washington D.C. on January 21, 2025. The ministers will exchange views on regional and global developments, with a particular focus on the Indo-Pacific, and assess the progress of various Quad initiatives as they prepare for the Quad Leaders' Summit to be hosted by India. They are also expected to explore new proposals to further the shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
India's role in the Indo-Pacific region is of increasing importance, driven by its strategic location, growing economy, and naval capabilities. India's interests include securing its sea lanes, countering China's growing influence, strengthening regional partnerships, and promoting economic growth through enhanced connectivity and trade. India's approach is also reflected in its support for a rules-based order, freedom of navigation, peaceful dispute resolution, and adherence to international law in the Indo-Pacific region.
Several initiatives underline India's commitment to the region. These include the "Act East" Policy, which focuses on cultivating economic and strategic relations with Southeast Asia. The Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative aims to enhance maritime security, promote sustainable development, and foster cooperation among Indian Ocean littoral states. The Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative is another key effort to strengthen strategic partnerships and promote regional security.
India's strategic approach rests on four pillars: collaborating with countries to address shared concerns through issue-based partnerships, actively participating in regional forums and security dialogues, recognizing regional institutions, and supporting the adoption of new principles that align with international law and respect for sovereignty. Key partners for India in the Indo-Pacific include the US, Japan, Australia, and France.
In addition to the Quad meeting, Jaishankar will inaugurate an exhibition titled "The Human Cost of Terrorism" at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on June 30. The exhibition will highlight the devastating impact of terrorist acts worldwide and the international community's efforts to combat terrorism.
