US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo supported India on its ongoing standoff with China, saying Beijing has deployed 60,000 soldiers in the border with India.

Pompeo said New Delhi "absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/time-to-accept-talks-wont-make-china-change-aggressive-stance-us-nsa-334239">‘Time to accept talks won’t make China change aggressive stance’: US NSA</a>

"They’ve stacked 60,000 soldiers against the Indians in the north," in an interview to Fox News.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-sorry-taiwanese-detained-in-china-confesses-on-state-tv-334533">'I am sorry': Taiwanese detained in China confesses on state TV</a>

The secretary of state's comments came after the Quad nations: India, Japan, Australia and the US met on Tuesday in Tokyo where they supported a rules-based Indo-Pacific region, sending an indirect message to China over its expansionist attempts.&nbsp;

"I was with my foreign minister counterparts from India, Australia, and Japan… four big democracies, four powerful economies, four nations, each of whom has real risk associated with the threats attempting to be imposed by the Chinese Communist Party. And they see it in their home countries too," Pompeo said on The Guy Benson Show, as quoted by The Indian Express.&nbsp;

"But they’ve all seen it, whether it’s the Indians, who are actually having a physical confrontation with the Chinese up in the Himalayas in the northeastern part of India, the Chinese have now begun to amass huge forces against India in the north."

He also said the Quad members are working on a set of policies to resist the threats each of these nations face from Beijing.&nbsp;

"(India) absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight," he added.

Pompeo said the the "tide has turned" and under Trump's leadership a coalition is established that "will push back against the threat and maintain good order, the rule of law, and the basic civic decency that comes from democracies controlling the world and not authoritarian regimes".

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo supported India on its ongoing standoff with China, saying Beijing has deployed 60,000 soldiers in the border with India. Pompeo said New Delhi "absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight".

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo supported India on its ongoing standoff with China, saying Beijing has deployed 60,000 soldiers in the border with India. Pompeo said New Delhi "absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight". Also read | ‘Time to accept talks won’t make China change aggressive stance’: US NSA "They’ve stacked 60,000 soldiers against the Indians in the north," in an interview to Fox News. Also read | 'I am sorry': Taiwanese detained in China confesses on state TV The secretary of state's comments came after the Quad nations: India, Japan, Australia and the US met on Tuesday in Tokyo where they supported a rules-based Indo-Pacific region, sending an indirect message to China over its expansionist attempts. "I was with my foreign minister counterparts from India, Australia, and Japan… four big democracies, four powerful economies, four nations, each of whom has real risk associated with the threats attempting to be imposed by the Chinese Communist Party. And they see it in their home countries too," Pompeo said on The Guy Benson Show, as quoted by The Indian Express. "But they’ve all seen it, whether it’s the Indians, who are actually having a physical confrontation with the Chinese up in the Himalayas in the northeastern part of India, the Chinese have now begun to amass huge forces against India in the north." He also said the Quad members are working on a set of policies to resist the threats each of these nations face from Beijing. "(India) absolutely need the United States to be their ally and partner in this fight," he added. Pompeo said the the "tide has turned" and under Trump's leadership a coalition is established that "will push back against the threat and maintain good order, the rule of law, and the basic civic decency that comes from democracies controlling the world and not authoritarian regimes".

Mike Pompeo lashes out at China, says nation deployed 60,000 soldiers at border with India

The foreign ministers of Japan, Australia, USA and India (Quad) have now met in Japan for Quadrilateral Security Dialogue to discuss future strategies and plans to ensure security in the Asia-Pacific Region.

Quad is an anti-China front and China clearly knows this, just as everyone else in the world. Quad should therefore be causing anxiety to leadership in China since it is for the first time that four nations have formed a front to checkmate the aggressive and expansionist ambitions of China. While only four countries are members of Quad, a number of other countries like Vietnam, Philippines, South Korea must be wishing QUAD well and watching the developments with interest. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While China has made spectacular progress in industrial and economic growth and military power, this&nbsp;'progress' has only caused alarm in many countries who are concerned about the aggressive posturing of China&nbsp;

China has already 'pocketed' Pakistan and North Korea. Moreover, China has a vice-like grip on countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Myanmar. It has managed to do so by giving loans and getting strategic positions in these countries.

China’s occupation of Tibet is now total and massacre of thousands of innocent Tibetans by China has been virtually ignored by UN and its member countries. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/british-parliaments-defence-committee-says-huawei-colludes-with-chinese-communist-party-333440">British parliament's defence committee says Huawei colludes with Chinese Communist Party</a>

China is occupying thousands of kilometres of Indian land and is claiming more. China’s aggressive claim with regard to the South China Sea and Senkaku islands clearly shows its &nbsp;expansionist intentions. &nbsp;

China’s One Belt One Road (OBOR) scheme is part of its strategy to dominate the entire world. In such a situation it is important that China’s aggressive march be halted and that China renounces its expansionist approach.

It is still not clear as to what would be the strategy of the Quad. Will be restricted to defensive movements?&nbsp;

Member countries of the Quad should realize that defensive strategies would only give more time to China to fortify its expansionist plans. If Quad ends up just as a discussion forum, China will have the last laugh.

Chinese government is a totalitarian regime under the control of coterie of leaders and certainly, it is not a representative government of the people of China. &nbsp;

Therefore, any strategic action of Quad members against China should be clearly understood as directed towards Chinese government and not towards Chinese people. Quad members should make this clear to the world.

It is necessary that Quad should work out a time-bound action plan to resist China’s aggression.

The first step in this direction should be to recognise Taiwan and take measures to ensure that Taiwan becomes a full-fledged member of the UN. China has been threatening to invade Taiwan for a long time and it may do so at any time in future. These plans must be thwarted.

China has occupied Tibet for over six decades now and the world is silent. China is suppressing freedom in Hong Kong and the world is simply watching. Encouraged by such silence, China may think that occupation of Taiwan may also get silently 'approved' by the world. China may also think that it can brush aside sounds of protest from 'paper tiger'. It is therefore necessary for the Quad to not let itself become one.

History provides many examples that drive home the saying that offence is the best defence. This is true more so when the cause is just.

Taiwan was part of China. When communist leaders launched an aggressive war against the then leadership of China, Taiwan became a separate region. Communist leaders then occupied the mainland. Hence, Taiwan deserves world recognition.

Second strategy of the Quad should be to work towards liberation of Tibet and undo the historical harm done by ruthless and totalitarian Chinese government. World and the UN have a duty to ensure that Tibet gets it’s independence back.

These two steps would make China realize the limitations of its aggression and expansionist strategies and would make China behave better, which is an essential need for world peace.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The foreign ministers of Japan, Australia, USA and India (Quad) have now met in Japan for Quadrilateral Security Dialogue to discuss future strategies and plans to ensure security in the Asia-Pacific Region.

The foreign ministers of Japan, Australia, USA and India (Quad) have now met in Japan for Quadrilateral Security Dialogue to discuss future strategies and plans to ensure security in the Asia-Pacific Region. Quad is an anti-China front and China clearly knows this, just as everyone else in the world. Quad should therefore be causing anxiety to leadership in China since it is for the first time that four nations have formed a front to checkmate the aggressive and expansionist ambitions of China. While only four countries are members of Quad, a number of other countries like Vietnam, Philippines, South Korea must be wishing QUAD well and watching the developments with interest. While China has made spectacular progress in industrial and economic growth and military power, this 'progress' has only caused alarm in many countries who are concerned about the aggressive posturing of China China has already 'pocketed' Pakistan and North Korea. Moreover, China has a vice-like grip on countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Myanmar. It has managed to do so by giving loans and getting strategic positions in these countries. China’s occupation of Tibet is now total and massacre of thousands of innocent Tibetans by China has been virtually ignored by UN and its member countries. Also Read | British parliament's defence committee says Huawei colludes with Chinese Communist Party China is occupying thousands of kilometres of Indian land and is claiming more. China’s aggressive claim with regard to the South China Sea and Senkaku islands clearly shows its expansionist intentions. China’s One Belt One Road (OBOR) scheme is part of its strategy to dominate the entire world. In such a situation it is important that China’s aggressive march be halted and that China renounces its expansionist approach. It is still not clear as to what would be the strategy of the Quad. Will be restricted to defensive movements? Member countries of the Quad should realize that defensive strategies would only give more time to China to fortify its expansionist plans. If Quad ends up just as a discussion forum, China will have the last laugh. Chinese government is a totalitarian regime under the control of coterie of leaders and certainly, it is not a representative government of the people of China. Therefore, any strategic action of Quad members against China should be clearly understood as directed towards Chinese government and not towards Chinese people. Quad members should make this clear to the world. It is necessary that Quad should work out a time-bound action plan to resist China’s aggression. The first step in this direction should be to recognise Taiwan and take measures to ensure that Taiwan becomes a full-fledged member of the UN. China has been threatening to invade Taiwan for a long time and it may do so at any time in future. These plans must be thwarted. China has occupied Tibet for over six decades now and the world is silent. China is suppressing freedom in Hong Kong and the world is simply watching. Encouraged by such silence, China may think that occupation of Taiwan may also get silently 'approved' by the world. China may also think that it can brush aside sounds of protest from 'paper tiger'. It is therefore necessary for the Quad to not let itself become one. History provides many examples that drive home the saying that offence is the best defence. This is true more so when the cause is just. Taiwan was part of China. When communist leaders launched an aggressive war against the then leadership of China, Taiwan became a separate region. Communist leaders then occupied the mainland. Hence, Taiwan deserves world recognition. Second strategy of the Quad should be to work towards liberation of Tibet and undo the historical harm done by ruthless and totalitarian Chinese government. World and the UN have a duty to ensure that Tibet gets it’s independence back. These two steps would make China realize the limitations of its aggression and expansionist strategies and would make China behave better, which is an essential need for world peace. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The Quad should accord recognition to Taiwan

For Japan, it was the first time its new prime minister hosted international emissaries. For the United States, it was the first trip to Asia by its top diplomat in more than a year.

So when Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo greeted each other in front of a bank of American and Japanese flags Tuesday in Tokyo, they exchanged what was surely the longest fist bump in their nations’ seven-decade alliance, a nearly 15-second joining of knuckles.

The physicality of the gesture highlighted the importance that both sides put on meeting in person to demonstrate the solidity of their bond in the face of rising challenges from China, even amid a widening coronavirus outbreak inside the White House and Japan’s cautious approach to opening its borders to foreign travelers.

The Tokyo gathering, which included the foreign ministers of Australia and India — the other two members of a strategic partnership known as the Quad — was scheduled before President Donald Trump contracted the coronavirus. The fact that it went ahead, even as many summits have moved online during the pandemic, signaled that parts of the Trump administration value multilateral relationships despite his “America First” agenda.

“Given all the insanity that is going on in Washington, D.C., right now, this is a really positive development,” said Gordon Flake, chief executive of the Perth US-Asia Centre at the University of Western Australia.

“The fact that the U.S. is showing up despite all the other problems in the world and domestic problems in the White House right now shows the level of importance that even the U.S. places on these three key partners,” he added. “Without Japan, India and Australia, there really is no regional response to the security challenges of the coming decades.”

There is little question about from where those challenges are coming.

With Chinese military aggression rising in the region and Beijing cracking down on Hong Kong, the four countries are looking for ways to cooperate in military, economic and technological realms — and deliver a message of solidarity to a watchful Beijing.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-china-will-pay-big-price-for-coronavirus-outbreak-333368">Donald Trump says China will pay 'big price' for coronavirus outbreak</a>

As Trump has pulled the United States back from the global stage, China has had a “remarkably fertile environment for growing Chinese influence in the region and undermining the U.S. influence, which is the Chinese objective,” Flake said. Instead, its deepening hawkishness and authoritarianism have “served to alarm the region as a whole.”

Yet only the United States, which has taken an especially hard line against China — pushing relations to their lowest point in decades — seemed willing to name the threat explicitly in Tokyo.

In Pompeo’s remarks Tuesday evening, he said that the Quad’s members needed to protect their people from China’s “exploitation, corruption and coercion,” and he blamed China for a cover-up of the initial coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan. A statement about Pompeo’s meeting with the Australian foreign minister, Marise Payne, described their discussions of “China’s malign activity in the region.”

Payne’s comments on Facebook about the meeting with Pompeo did not call out China by name, but her implication was clear.

“Whether it is individual human rights, market-based economies, countering disinformation or building greater resilience into our supply chains,” she wrote, “our common values and interests mean we share a vision for a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”

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Diplomats and analysts know well that variations on the catchphrase “free and open Indo-Pacific” — which was invoked in remarks by Payne; Japan’s foreign minister, Toshimitsu Motegi; and India’s foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar — are all directed at China.

American officials have followed the bellicose example set by Trump, who has bashed China to improve his reelection prospects. The Quad’s other members, mindful of their geographic proximity and economic reliance on China, were more circumspect in their criticisms.

A day before the foreign ministers arrived in Tokyo, Katsunobu Kato, Japan’s chief Cabinet secretary, said that “stable relationships with both the U.S. and China, the two largest economic powers, are extremely important in the international community.”

Japan, aware of the economic might of its largest trading partner and its own limited military options, needs to pursue a delicate balancing act, experts said.

“When we talk about the Quad, some people express their concern about what China might think about it,” said Narushige Michishita, director of the Security and International Studies Program at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies in Tokyo. “If we talk about China in this setting, China would regard this as a containment conspiracy, so this sentiment still remains.”

The Quad, Michishita said, is “about China, but we say it’s not about China. Everybody knows it. China knows it. We don’t have to say it too much.”

Cooperation between the four countries, formally known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, began in 2004 to coordinate disaster relief and humanitarian assistance in the wake of the devastating tsunami that killed hundreds of thousands across Indonesia, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka and South Africa.

But as the grouping evolved into a diplomatic and security partnership that Beijing perceived as a direct effort to contain its rise, Australia and India grew wary of a backlash from China, and the group collapsed.

“It was too early,” said Lavina Lee, a senior lecturer in international relations at Macquarie University in Sydney. The early version of the Quad “was preempting and creating a security dilemma where none existed.”

“But now we’re in a very different phase of history,” Lee said. “Since 2012, China has become much more clearly assertive and aggressive in terms of its territorial aggression and ambitions of where it sees itself in the region, and under COVID conditions that is not letting up at all.”

In June, China and India engaged in their worst border clash in 40 years, and relations between Australia and China have deteriorated since Australia attributed a surge of cyberattacks to Beijing and launched an investigation into allegations of a Chinese government plot to manipulate the country’s politics.

Japan has also grown more vigilant as China has repeatedly sent ships to patrol waters around the Senkaku Islands, administered by Japan but contested by China.

“If you had Venn diagrams and put together all of their definitions, I think you would see a fairly large overlap in how each of those four countries think about security in the region — that there should be freedom of navigation and open trade, and that countries should not be coerced into accepting outcomes that are against their interests,” said Bonnie Glaser, director of the China Power Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

While no joint statement was on the agenda for the four nations, they were expected to discuss the possible development of an investment fund to help developing Asian countries with infrastructure projects, a counter to China’s Belt and Road initiative; cooperation on supply chains to reduce reliance on China; the development of 5G networks that do not depend on Chinese technology giant Huawei; and an invitation to Australia to join naval war exercises with the other three countries.

For Japan, it was the first time its new prime minister hosted international emissaries. For the United States, it was the first trip to Asia by its top diplomat in more than a year.

For Japan, it was the first time its new prime minister hosted international emissaries. For the United States, it was the first trip to Asia by its top diplomat in more than a year. So when Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo greeted each other in front of a bank of American and Japanese flags Tuesday in Tokyo, they exchanged what was surely the longest fist bump in their nations’ seven-decade alliance, a nearly 15-second joining of knuckles. The physicality of the gesture highlighted the importance that both sides put on meeting in person to demonstrate the solidity of their bond in the face of rising challenges from China, even amid a widening coronavirus outbreak inside the White House and Japan’s cautious approach to opening its borders to foreign travelers. The Tokyo gathering, which included the foreign ministers of Australia and India — the other two members of a strategic partnership known as the Quad — was scheduled before President Donald Trump contracted the coronavirus. The fact that it went ahead, even as many summits have moved online during the pandemic, signaled that parts of the Trump administration value multilateral relationships despite his “America First” agenda. “Given all the insanity that is going on in Washington, D.C., right now, this is a really positive development,” said Gordon Flake, chief executive of the Perth US-Asia Centre at the University of Western Australia. “The fact that the U.S. is showing up despite all the other problems in the world and domestic problems in the White House right now shows the level of importance that even the U.S. places on these three key partners,” he added. “Without Japan, India and Australia, there really is no regional response to the security challenges of the coming decades.” There is little question about from where those challenges are coming. With Chinese military aggression rising in the region and Beijing cracking down on Hong Kong, the four countries are looking for ways to cooperate in military, economic and technological realms — and deliver a message of solidarity to a watchful Beijing. Also Read | Donald Trump says China will pay 'big price' for coronavirus outbreak As Trump has pulled the United States back from the global stage, China has had a “remarkably fertile environment for growing Chinese influence in the region and undermining the U.S. influence, which is the Chinese objective,” Flake said. Instead, its deepening hawkishness and authoritarianism have “served to alarm the region as a whole.” Yet only the United States, which has taken an especially hard line against China — pushing relations to their lowest point in decades — seemed willing to name the threat explicitly in Tokyo. In Pompeo’s remarks Tuesday evening, he said that the Quad’s members needed to protect their people from China’s “exploitation, corruption and coercion,” and he blamed China for a cover-up of the initial coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan. A statement about Pompeo’s meeting with the Australian foreign minister, Marise Payne, described their discussions of “China’s malign activity in the region.” Payne’s comments on Facebook about the meeting with Pompeo did not call out China by name, but her implication was clear. “Whether it is individual human rights, market-based economies, countering disinformation or building greater resilience into our supply chains,” she wrote, “our common values and interests mean we share a vision for a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific.” × Diplomats and analysts know well that variations on the catchphrase “free and open Indo-Pacific” — which was invoked in remarks by Payne; Japan’s foreign minister, Toshimitsu Motegi; and India’s foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar — are all directed at China. American officials have followed the bellicose example set by Trump, who has bashed China to improve his reelection prospects. The Quad’s other members, mindful of their geographic proximity and economic reliance on China, were more circumspect in their criticisms. A day before the foreign ministers arrived in Tokyo, Katsunobu Kato, Japan’s chief Cabinet secretary, said that “stable relationships with both the U.S. and China, the two largest economic powers, are extremely important in the international community.” Japan, aware of the economic might of its largest trading partner and its own limited military options, needs to pursue a delicate balancing act, experts said. “When we talk about the Quad, some people express their concern about what China might think about it,” said Narushige Michishita, director of the Security and International Studies Program at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies in Tokyo. “If we talk about China in this setting, China would regard this as a containment conspiracy, so this sentiment still remains.” The Quad, Michishita said, is “about China, but we say it’s not about China. Everybody knows it. China knows it. We don’t have to say it too much.” Cooperation between the four countries, formally known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, began in 2004 to coordinate disaster relief and humanitarian assistance in the wake of the devastating tsunami that killed hundreds of thousands across Indonesia, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka and South Africa. But as the grouping evolved into a diplomatic and security partnership that Beijing perceived as a direct effort to contain its rise, Australia and India grew wary of a backlash from China, and the group collapsed. “It was too early,” said Lavina Lee, a senior lecturer in international relations at Macquarie University in Sydney. The early version of the Quad “was preempting and creating a security dilemma where none existed.” “But now we’re in a very different phase of history,” Lee said. “Since 2012, China has become much more clearly assertive and aggressive in terms of its territorial aggression and ambitions of where it sees itself in the region, and under COVID conditions that is not letting up at all.” In June, China and India engaged in their worst border clash in 40 years, and relations between Australia and China have deteriorated since Australia attributed a surge of cyberattacks to Beijing and launched an investigation into allegations of a Chinese government plot to manipulate the country’s politics. Japan has also grown more vigilant as China has repeatedly sent ships to patrol waters around the Senkaku Islands, administered by Japan but contested by China. “If you had Venn diagrams and put together all of their definitions, I think you would see a fairly large overlap in how each of those four countries think about security in the region — that there should be freedom of navigation and open trade, and that countries should not be coerced into accepting outcomes that are against their interests,” said Bonnie Glaser, director of the China Power Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. While no joint statement was on the agenda for the four nations, they were expected to discuss the possible development of an investment fund to help developing Asian countries with infrastructure projects, a counter to China’s Belt and Road initiative; cooperation on supply chains to reduce reliance on China; the development of 5G networks that do not depend on Chinese technology giant Huawei; and an invitation to Australia to join naval war exercises with the other three countries.

Pompeo’s message in Japan: Countering China is worth meeting face to face

The year 2017 was a big one for the Quad group, as it was then revived.

And China's Belt and Road Initiative was the trigger.

The Quad wanted to counter the debt trap diplomacy.

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It's 2020 now, and China has exported the coronavirus -- which has killed more than 100,000 people in India, 215,000 in the United States, nearly 1,600 people in Japan, and nearly 900 in Australia.

Beijing is also fighting -- a border conflict with India, a trade war with the US, punitive taxes on Australia, and territorial disputes with Japan.

It makes all the sense for these countries to join ranks.

So is this just another alliance with a common adversary?

SAARC, NATO, G7, G20, Asean, Bimstec, SCO and now, the Quad.

Practically speaking, this is not even an alliance. There is no formal mutual-assistance treaty.

The Quad does not have a secretariat, or for that matter a website.

US President Donald Trump is not exactly a fan of alliances. India prefers fighting its own wars. Japan already has a military alliance with the US and Australia.

So why do they need the Quad?&nbsp;

The Quad is more like an amorphous group -- a 'free, open and prosperous' indo-pacific region.

And China poses a threat to this region. It has militarised the South China Sea.

Now, the Quad -- in order to ensure peace -- must be proactive, not reactive. It cannot pull off another Philippines.

But China only understands the language of power.

So, for Quad to be sucessful, it must come out as a military coalition.

The US has already increased its deployment in the South China Sea.

In June, India and Japan conducted a joint exercise in the Indian Ocean.

In July, India and the US conducted maritime drills in the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

Japan is now a part of the annual malabar military exercise.

Something that began in 1992, as a bilateral naval exercise between the US and India.

There is also a lot of talk about Australia joining these drills.

Together, the Quad can make a formidable force.

Look at the numbers -- China has an army of 2 million.

The combined army of India, the US, Japan and Australia is 2.2 million.

Chinese navy has a strength of 240,000. For the quad, the naval forces stand at 760,000.

Speaking about the forces, the PLA has 398,000 troops, and the Quad 455,000. It makes sense for this to be a military coalition.

The Quad also needs clear geo-strategic goals.

New Zealand, South Korea and Vietnam have already been invited to the talks once. They were called the plus three countries.

They joined to talk about the coronavirus pandemic, with the Quad intending to find resonance worldwide.

But first the members will have to show intent and commitment, put their money where the mouth is, and speak out without mincing words and hiding behind diplomatic jargon.

For all the hype around this meeting however, they did not even issue a joint statement.

The Quad is an idea whose time has come, but the ideas need implementation.

The year 2017 was a big one for the Quad group, as it was then revived. And China's Belt and Road Initiative was the trigger. The Quad wanted to counter the debt trap diplomacy.

The year 2017 was a big one for the Quad group, as it was then revived. And China's Belt and Road Initiative was the trigger. The Quad wanted to counter the debt trap diplomacy. It's 2020 now, and China has exported the coronavirus -- which has killed more than 100,000 people in India, 215,000 in the United States, nearly 1,600 people in Japan, and nearly 900 in Australia. Beijing is also fighting -- a border conflict with India, a trade war with the US, punitive taxes on Australia, and territorial disputes with Japan. It makes all the sense for these countries to join ranks. So is this just another alliance with a common adversary? SAARC, NATO, G7, G20, Asean, Bimstec, SCO and now, the Quad. Practically speaking, this is not even an alliance. There is no formal mutual-assistance treaty. The Quad does not have a secretariat, or for that matter a website. US President Donald Trump is not exactly a fan of alliances. India prefers fighting its own wars. Japan already has a military alliance with the US and Australia. So why do they need the Quad? The Quad is more like an amorphous group -- a 'free, open and prosperous' indo-pacific region. And China poses a threat to this region. It has militarised the South China Sea. Now, the Quad -- in order to ensure peace -- must be proactive, not reactive. It cannot pull off another Philippines. But China only understands the language of power. So, for Quad to be sucessful, it must come out as a military coalition. The US has already increased its deployment in the South China Sea. In June, India and Japan conducted a joint exercise in the Indian Ocean. In July, India and the US conducted maritime drills in the Indian Ocean. Japan is now a part of the annual malabar military exercise. Something that began in 1992, as a bilateral naval exercise between the US and India. There is also a lot of talk about Australia joining these drills. Together, the Quad can make a formidable force. Look at the numbers -- China has an army of 2 million. The combined army of India, the US, Japan and Australia is 2.2 million. Chinese navy has a strength of 240,000. For the quad, the naval forces stand at 760,000. Speaking about the forces, the PLA has 398,000 troops, and the Quad 455,000. It makes sense for this to be a military coalition. The Quad also needs clear geo-strategic goals. New Zealand, South Korea and Vietnam have already been invited to the talks once. They were called the plus three countries. They joined to talk about the coronavirus pandemic, with the Quad intending to find resonance worldwide. But first the members will have to show intent and commitment, put their money where the mouth is, and speak out without mincing words and hiding behind diplomatic jargon. For all the hype around this meeting however, they did not even issue a joint statement. The Quad is an idea whose time has come, but the ideas need implementation.

Quad is an idea whose time has come. But ideas need implementation

The Quad has been around for 13 years. The aim of the alliance is to contain China's growing aggression. But, the Quad has been shy of saying it out aloud. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the Quad must move beyond being a symbolic alliance.

Gravitas: Will 2020 be a turning point for the Quad?

Foreign Ministers of India, Japan, Australia, and the US met in Tokyo today. This Quad meeting was seen as an effort to cement the alliance. Can the Quad rise up to take on China? WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the Quad must not play safe now.

Quad Meeting in Tokyo: Can the alliance go beyond words? | Gravitas

All the noise around the QUAD meeting, yet the members could not stitch together a joint statement, not even to condemn their common adversary-China. WION's Palki Sharma asks- What is holding back India, U.S, Japan, and Australia?

Gravitas: Is the QUAD a lost opportunity?

Four countries have one agenda to stop China's efforts to dominate the Indo-Pacific. China's expansionism threat is not new and neither the 'Quad' or the Quadrilateral alliance between India, Australia, United States and Japan.

However, in the past, the group has been shy of openly declaring its intentions.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-is-an-idea-whose-time-has-come-but-ideas-need-implementation-333013">Quad is an idea whose time has come. But ideas need implementation</a>

The group met for the first time in 2017 and a few years before this these countries had joined hands for ad hoc relief operations after the 2004 tsunami.&nbsp;

The prime ministers of India, Japan, Australia met with the then US Vice President Dick Cheney.&nbsp;

The first 'Quad' summit happened on the sidelines of the ASEAN Forum.

Since then, the idea of the alliance has been around, made news, but fallen short of taking any substantive action.&nbsp;

A decade later, though, the alliance was resurrected in 2017 and the members of 'Quad' had a working-level meeting.&nbsp;

And now, amid the pandemic, the foreign ministers have met in Tokyo, which reflects a clear sense of purpose, an urgency to take a harder stand against China.&nbsp;

America is not mincing words on China and Australia has named the Asian giant as a threat in its strategic assessment.&nbsp;

Australia's department of defence has said that China is engaged in active pursuit of "greater influence in the Indo-Pacific".&nbsp;

India has already locked in a border standoff with China and since May, New Delhi has imposed curbs on Beijing's investments.

More than 100 Chinese apps have been banned in India.&nbsp;

And, Japan's territorial disputes in the East China Sea have flared up again.&nbsp;

Japan was the country that proposed this alliance and now it has become the host for the meeting of the group's foreign ministers.

<h2>What will the 'Quad' do?</h2>

The US wants the alliance to have a clear military dimension.&nbsp;

Reports suggest Washington is considering inviting air forces of the group's allies for training at the Andersen Air Force Base in Guam

The Guam base is a key US military facility in the Pacific and may also be China's first target if hostilities escalate between the two countries.&nbsp;

Last month, the Chinese Air Force released a propaganda video that simulated an attack on the base. But eagle-eyed fact-checkers were quick to point out how Chinese stole clips from Hollywood movies to make this fake video.&nbsp;

In recent months, China has made its intentions clear. It is indulging in more fights and staking a claim on more territories.&nbsp;

The time is right for all the four nations to move beyond being a symbolic alliance.&nbsp;

It must set out clear objectives and each ally must commit to tangible contributions.&nbsp;

They could start by naming China as the common enemy first.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Four countries have one agenda to stop China's efforts to dominate the Indo-Pacific. China's expansionism threat is not new and neither the 'Quad' or the Quadrilateral alliance between India, Australia, United States and Japan.

Four countries have one agenda to stop China's efforts to dominate the Indo-Pacific. China's expansionism threat is not new and neither the 'Quad' or the Quadrilateral alliance between India, Australia, United States and Japan. However, in the past, the group has been shy of openly declaring its intentions. Watch | Also read | Quad is an idea whose time has come. But ideas need implementation The group met for the first time in 2017 and a few years before this these countries had joined hands for ad hoc relief operations after the 2004 tsunami. The prime ministers of India, Japan, Australia met with the then US Vice President Dick Cheney. The first 'Quad' summit happened on the sidelines of the ASEAN Forum. Since then, the idea of the alliance has been around, made news, but fallen short of taking any substantive action. A decade later, though, the alliance was resurrected in 2017 and the members of 'Quad' had a working-level meeting. And now, amid the pandemic, the foreign ministers have met in Tokyo, which reflects a clear sense of purpose, an urgency to take a harder stand against China. America is not mincing words on China and Australia has named the Asian giant as a threat in its strategic assessment. Australia's department of defence has said that China is engaged in active pursuit of "greater influence in the Indo-Pacific". India has already locked in a border standoff with China and since May, New Delhi has imposed curbs on Beijing's investments. More than 100 Chinese apps have been banned in India. And, Japan's territorial disputes in the East China Sea have flared up again. Japan was the country that proposed this alliance and now it has become the host for the meeting of the group's foreign ministers. What will the 'Quad' do? The US wants the alliance to have a clear military dimension. Reports suggest Washington is considering inviting air forces of the group's allies for training at the Andersen Air Force Base in Guam The Guam base is a key US military facility in the Pacific and may also be China's first target if hostilities escalate between the two countries. Last month, the Chinese Air Force released a propaganda video that simulated an attack on the base. But eagle-eyed fact-checkers were quick to point out how Chinese stole clips from Hollywood movies to make this fake video. In recent months, China has made its intentions clear. It is indulging in more fights and staking a claim on more territories. The time is right for all the four nations to move beyond being a symbolic alliance. It must set out clear objectives and each ally must commit to tangible contributions. They could start by naming China as the common enemy first.

Quad: A potential force to counter China needs to move beyond symbolism

United States' Secretary of States Mike Pompeo slammed China over COVID-19 Quad Foreign Ministers' meet in presence of India's Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar. Mike Pompeo also discussed post-COVID world order.

Mike Pompeo slams China over COVID-19 in Quad Foreign Ministers' meet

To counter China's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, India, the US, Japan and Australia's collective alliance known as 'Quad' agreed to increase coordination for the creation of a free and open Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

Japan said the Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne affirmed bolstering a free, open and rules-based international order in a statement released after the meeting in Tokyo.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-quad-fms-meet-jaishankar-calls-for-respect-for-territorial-integrity-and-sovereignty-332905">At Quad FMs meet, Jaishankar calls for respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty</a>

The four countries also vowed to coordinate in ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, the statement said as was reported by Kyodo news agency.&nbsp;

The 'Quad' meeting took place amid China's growing expansionism ambitions in the Indo-Pacific, South China Sea and in eastern Ladakh.

PM Suga in his address said a free and open Indo-Pacific is "widely recognised by the international community as a vision of peace and prosperity of this region," and that his administration's basic policy is to "further continue advancing our members to this end."

"The international community is facing multiple and various challenges. This is exactly why right now is the time that we must further deepen our coordination with as many countries as possible that share our vision," the Japanese PM said.&nbsp;

India's Jaishankar in his opening remarks said since all the members are vibrant and pluralistic democracy, they remain committed to "upholding the rules-based international order, underpinned by the rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas, respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes."&nbsp;

"Our objective remains advancing the security and the economic interests of all countries having legitimate and vital interests in the region," Jaishankar said.

To counter China's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, India, the US, Japan and Australia's collective alliance known as 'Quad' agreed to increase coordination for the creation of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

To counter China's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, India, the US, Japan and Australia's collective alliance known as 'Quad' agreed to increase coordination for the creation of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Japan said the Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne affirmed bolstering a free, open and rules-based international order in a statement released after the meeting in Tokyo. Also read | At Quad FMs meet, Jaishankar calls for respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty The four countries also vowed to coordinate in ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, the statement said as was reported by Kyodo news agency. The 'Quad' meeting took place amid China's growing expansionism ambitions in the Indo-Pacific, South China Sea and in eastern Ladakh. PM Suga in his address said a free and open Indo-Pacific is "widely recognised by the international community as a vision of peace and prosperity of this region," and that his administration's basic policy is to "further continue advancing our members to this end." "The international community is facing multiple and various challenges. This is exactly why right now is the time that we must further deepen our coordination with as many countries as possible that share our vision," the Japanese PM said. India's Jaishankar in his opening remarks said since all the members are vibrant and pluralistic democracy, they remain committed to "upholding the rules-based international order, underpinned by the rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas, respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes." "Our objective remains advancing the security and the economic interests of all countries having legitimate and vital interests in the region," Jaishankar said.

To counter China's assertiveness, Quad calls for 'free' and 'open' Indo-Pacific

Pompeo's trip comes despite the coronavirus crisis gripping Washington, which has seen President Donald Trump and a raft of his closest staff and advisors test positive for Covid-19.

Pompeo hails Japan PM Yoshihide Suga 'Force for good' during his visit to Tokyo

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met his American counterpart, Mike Pompeo, on the sidelines of the Quad ministerial meeting on October 6.

QUAD Foreign Ministers' Meet: EAM S Jaishankar says India, US will work for stability in Indo-Pacific

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have met in Tokyo. While they have been in touch with each other for past few months, amid the COVID crisis--this is the first in-person meeting between the two.

QUAD Foreign ministers' meet: Indian external affairs Min meets US Secy of State

Quad countries India, Japan, US and Australia foreign ministers will meet on Tuesday in Tokyo at 5 pm local time or 1.30 pm IST. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-chinese-president-xi-to-attend-brics-summit-virtually-on-november-17-332671">Also Read:&nbsp;PM Modi, Chinese President Xi to attend BRICS summit 'virtually' on November 17</a>

Foreign ministers of all four Quad countries - US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo, Indian External Affairs minister S Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will be present for the face-to-face meeting, a first amid the pandemic.

It is the second such Quad FMs meet. Last year, all FMs of Quad countries had met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA).

Ministry of external affairs in a release said,"Foreign Ministers shall discuss the post-COVID-19 international order and the need for a coordinated response to the various challenges emerging from the pandemic."

The release said, four ministers, will also "discuss regional issues and collectively affirm the importance of maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific."

On the sidelines of the meet, EAM will also have bilaterals with his Quad counterparts, including the US Secretary of State. It takes place even as India and the US are getting ready for 2+2 foreign and defence ministers meeting that will take place later this month.

It is the first major diplomatic engagement of the new Japanese Prime minister Yoshihide Suga, the grouping whose focus is on "free and open" Indo-Pacific which is viewed suspiciously by China.&nbsp;

Quad countries India, Japan, US and Australia foreign ministers will meet on Tuesday in Tokyo at 5 pm local time or 1.30 pm IST. Also Read: PM Modi, Chinese President Xi to attend BRICS summit 'virtually' on November 17 Foreign ministers of all four Quad countries - US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo, Indian External Affairs minister S Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will be present for the face-to-face meeting, a first amid the pandemic.

Quad countries India, Japan, US and Australia foreign ministers will meet on Tuesday in Tokyo at 5 pm local time or 1.30 pm IST. Also Read: PM Modi, Chinese President Xi to attend BRICS summit 'virtually' on November 17 Foreign ministers of all four Quad countries - US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo, Indian External Affairs minister S Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will be present for the face-to-face meeting, a first amid the pandemic. It is the second such Quad FMs meet. Last year, all FMs of Quad countries had met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA). Ministry of external affairs in a release said,"Foreign Ministers shall discuss the post-COVID-19 international order and the need for a coordinated response to the various challenges emerging from the pandemic." The release said, four ministers, will also "discuss regional issues and collectively affirm the importance of maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific." On the sidelines of the meet, EAM will also have bilaterals with his Quad counterparts, including the US Secretary of State. It takes place even as India and the US are getting ready for 2+2 foreign and defence ministers meeting that will take place later this month. It is the first major diplomatic engagement of the new Japanese Prime minister Yoshihide Suga, the grouping whose focus is on "free and open" Indo-Pacific which is viewed suspiciously by China.

QUAD foreign ministers to meet on Tuesday in Tokyo

India's Chief of defence staff General Bipin Rawat has backed Quad — a grouping of 4 countries — India, US, Japan and Australia calling it a "good arrangement" which can become a "system" to ensure freedom of navigation at the high seas.

Speaking at USISPF or US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Rawat said, “We are very keen to ensure that complete freedom of navigations on the seas and the airspace above. As far as the Quad is concerned, we feel it’s a good arrangement that will ensure that the Indian Ocean region and all other oceans around" has "complete freedom of navigation" and without taking the name of China explained, "without fear of any other nation, singularly trying to dominate the ocean."

China has been trying to dominate in the South China Sea, claiming the majority of the international water based on its nine-dash line. The nine-dash line is a Chinese govt back construct which is Bejing's claim to the South China Sea and has been rejected by an arbitral tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the law of the sea.

Rawat said, "Largest number of ships and oil reserves and oil requirements pass through this area. So we want the quad to become a system to ensure freedom of navigation".&nbsp;

This is for the first time he has made such a comment and comes even as likeminded countries like India, US and others are increasing engagement in the Indo Pacific region.

India is expected to hold Quad ministerial meet soon, which will be the 2nd such meet after last year’s meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General assembly in New York.

India's Chief of defence staff General Bipin Rawat has backed Quad — a grouping of 4 countries — India, US, Japan and Australia calling it a "good arrangement" which can become a "system" to ensure freedom of navigation at the high seas.

India's Chief of defence staff General Bipin Rawat has backed Quad — a grouping of 4 countries — India, US, Japan and Australia calling it a "good arrangement" which can become a "system" to ensure freedom of navigation at the high seas. Speaking at USISPF or US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Rawat said, “We are very keen to ensure that complete freedom of navigations on the seas and the airspace above. As far as the Quad is concerned, we feel it’s a good arrangement that will ensure that the Indian Ocean region and all other oceans around" has "complete freedom of navigation" and without taking the name of China explained, "without fear of any other nation, singularly trying to dominate the ocean." China has been trying to dominate in the South China Sea, claiming the majority of the international water based on its nine-dash line. The nine-dash line is a Chinese govt back construct which is Bejing's claim to the South China Sea and has been rejected by an arbitral tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the law of the sea. Rawat said, "Largest number of ships and oil reserves and oil requirements pass through this area. So we want the quad to become a system to ensure freedom of navigation". This is for the first time he has made such a comment and comes even as likeminded countries like India, US and others are increasing engagement in the Indo Pacific region. India is expected to hold Quad ministerial meet soon, which will be the 2nd such meet after last year’s meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General assembly in New York.

Quad can become a system to ensure freedom of navigation: India's chief of Defence staff General Bipin Rawat

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun

Quad ministerial meet in Delhi soon, says US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun.

Speaking at&nbsp; the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Biegun said, "There’s going to be a meeting of the Quad, a ministerial meeting with the Quad this fall in Delhi – that’s the intention anyway – in person."

"I’d say this Quad concept has really helped India find a place in the Indo-Pacific – in the larger Indo-Pacific theatre. &nbsp;It’s also obviously indeed in our interest to have India as a partner in these issues,"&nbsp;Biegun added.

A source from one of the Quad country told WION,"details of the meet are&nbsp;still being worked out, but there is strong intent to hold something in coming months. Meet could happen after the Indian parliament's session is over."

Indian Parliament's monsoon session will take place from September 14 to October 1.

The Quad foreign ministers had met last year on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly meeting in the New Year&nbsp;which was the first such meet of the grouping.

Underlining the common democratic set-up of the Quad countries, Biegun said, "Quad... represents&nbsp;four extraordinarily solid democracies" and "shared values that complement shared interests and creates a solid foundation. &nbsp;And so at its core, what the Quad is, is a combination of democracies."

Quad is viewed with suspicion by China which views it as a grouping that is anti-Bejing. Asked about Quad being an anti-China grouping, Biegun said,"I don’t think responding to the threat of China in and of itself or any potential challenge from China in and of itself would be enough of a driver. It also has to have a positive agenda."

"The purpose here can be to create a critical mass around the shared values and interests of those parties in a manner that attracts more countries in the Indo-Pacific,"&nbsp;Biegun added.

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun.

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun. Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Biegun said, "There’s going to be a meeting of the Quad, a ministerial meeting with the Quad this fall in Delhi – that’s the intention anyway – in person." "I’d say this Quad concept has really helped India find a place in the Indo-Pacific – in the larger Indo-Pacific theatre. It’s also obviously indeed in our interest to have India as a partner in these issues," Biegun added. A source from one of the Quad country told WION,"details of the meet are still being worked out, but there is strong intent to hold something in coming months. Meet could happen after the Indian parliament's session is over." Indian Parliament's monsoon session will take place from September 14 to October 1. The Quad foreign ministers had met last year on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly meeting in the New Year which was the first such meet of the grouping. Underlining the common democratic set-up of the Quad countries, Biegun said, "Quad... represents four extraordinarily solid democracies" and "shared values that complement shared interests and creates a solid foundation. And so at its core, what the Quad is, is a combination of democracies." Quad is viewed with suspicion by China which views it as a grouping that is anti-Bejing. Asked about Quad being an anti-China grouping, Biegun said,"I don’t think responding to the threat of China in and of itself or any potential challenge from China in and of itself would be enough of a driver. It also has to have a positive agenda." "The purpose here can be to create a critical mass around the shared values and interests of those parties in a manner that attracts more countries in the Indo-Pacific," Biegun added.

Quad ministerial meet in Delhi soon, says US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun

After 9,000km of brutal racing across Peru, Bolivia and Argentina the competitors finally crossed the finish line of the 2018 Dakar Rally in C&oacute;rdoba.

Carlos Sainz, Matthias Walkner, Ignacio Casale and Eduard Nikolaev all carried big leads heading into the final 120km special stage around the home of rallying in Argentina and were not to be denied.

For Walkner, it was a maiden victory in the toughest rally raid on the planet, a second for Sainz and Casale while Nikolaev now has a hat-trick of truck titles.

Car

The experience was the name of the game for Carlos Sainz claiming a second Dakar victory and his first since 2010. The Spaniard had it all to lose going into the final few stages but kept his cool and controlled the race perfectly.

Sainz, 55, said: &ldquo;I am extremely happy for me and everyone behind the victory. It was hard when you have such a big lead as it is easy to start making mistakes. This was the hardest Dakar I have ever done, including the ones in Africa.&rdquo;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
What a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dakar2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dakar2018</a> for <a href="https://twitter.com/CSainz_oficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CSainz_oficial</a> ????????, who celebrates is 2nd overall victory. 
// Qu&eacute; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DakarRally?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DakarRally</a> para C. Sainz ????????, quien celebra si segunda victoria en esta carrera ???? <a href="https://t.co/oKBoRFEuei">pic.twitter.com/oKBoRFEuei</a>
&mdash; DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/dakar/status/954903726099259392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Nasser Al-Attiyah enjoyed four stage wins in 2018 to finish second overall, while final stage winner Giniel de Villiers edged Mr Dakar St&eacute;phane Peterhansel to the final podium spot.

Peterhansel said: &ldquo;We did two big mistakes and lost a lot of time. This is the race though. At the end, I still don&rsquo;t know if I will continue, I need time to think about it.&rdquo;

Bike

Matthias Walkner created a little bit of history in Argentina by becoming the first Austrian to ever win the bike category of the Dakar Rally.

The 31-year-old has been a consistent presence towards the front of the pack throughout the race and in a stage won by Kevin Benavides, Walkner brought his KTM home in eighth to start the party.

Walkner said: &ldquo;When you are leading with such a big gap in the biggest event in our sport, it was crazy. Now it is time to celebrate. I was never the guy who was winning a lot or losing a lot, just riding always near the front.&rdquo;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
His team runs to celebrate the 1st place of <a href="https://twitter.com/MatthiasWalkner?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MatthiasWalkner</a> on ???? 
// Su equipo corre para celebrar el 1er lugar de M. Walkner en ???? ???????????? <a href="https://t.co/WxKOqQ2LF9">pic.twitter.com/WxKOqQ2LF9</a>
&mdash; DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/dakar/status/954887403604496384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Third-placed finisher Toby Price said: &ldquo;It is crazy to be here at the finish line on the podium. I couldn&rsquo;t expect any more. We will come back bigger and better for the next one.&rdquo;

Laia Sanz, who finished 12th, said: &ldquo;It was really tough, but to finish in this position is really good. I can be happy. I have started eight Dakar&rsquo;s and finished all eight which is fantastic.&rdquo;

Quad

Chilean Ignacio Casale has dominated this race from start to finish.

After winning the opening three stages in Peru he never looked back and comfortably lifted a second title to add to his 2014 triumph with a huge margin of one hour and 38 minutes to spare.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
&quot;This event changed my life &quot; said the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/quads?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#quads</a> winner <a href="https://twitter.com/IgnacioCasale?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IgnacioCasale</a> ???????? about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DakarRally?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DakarRally</a> 
// &quot;Este evento me cambi&oacute; la vida&quot; dice el ganador de quads Casale ???????? <a href="https://t.co/unarQ4Rd3k">pic.twitter.com/unarQ4Rd3k</a>
&mdash; DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/dakar/status/954884105451208712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Truck

The records will show Eduard Nikolaev won this race by nearly four hours, however, it was far from that simple.

The Russian was involved in a neck and neck fight with Federico Villagra up until the penultimate stage when the Argentine suffered a mechanical and had to abandon.

Nikolaev acknowledged after: &ldquo;Villagra is a very fast competitor. Congratulations to all the teams.&rdquo;

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???? GC - TRUCKS???????? 
1. Eduard Nikolaev 
2. Siarhei Viazovich +3h57&#39;17&quot; 
3. Airat Maardev +5h22&#39;34&quot; 
More / m&aacute;s info &gt; <a href="https://t.co/R0ezQ07YE0">https://t.co/R0ezQ07YE0</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dakar2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dakar2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/82K3SeAJ4U">pic.twitter.com/82K3SeAJ4U</a>
&mdash; DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/dakar/status/954753075302031362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sainz, Walkner, Casale and Nikolaev win the 40th edition of the Dakar Rally in style

After 9,000km of brutal racing across Peru, Bolivia and Argentina the competitors finally crossed the finish line of the 2018 Dakar Rally in Córdoba. Carlos Sainz, Matthias Walkner, Ignacio Casale and Eduard Nikolaev all carried big leads heading into the final 120km special stage around the home of rallying in Argentina and were not to be denied. For Walkner, it was a maiden victory in the toughest rally raid on the planet, a second for Sainz and Casale while Nikolaev now has a hat-trick of truck titles. Car The experience was the name of the game for Carlos Sainz claiming a second Dakar victory and his first since 2010. The Spaniard had it all to lose going into the final few stages but kept his cool and controlled the race perfectly. Sainz, 55, said: “I am extremely happy for me and everyone behind the victory. It was hard when you have such a big lead as it is easy to start making mistakes. This was the hardest Dakar I have ever done, including the ones in Africa.” What a #Dakar2018 for @CSainz_oficial ????????, who celebrates is 2nd overall victory. // Qué #DakarRally para C. Sainz ????????, quien celebra si segunda victoria en esta carrera ???? pic.twitter.com/oKBoRFEuei — DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) January 21, 2018 × Nasser Al-Attiyah enjoyed four stage wins in 2018 to finish second overall, while final stage winner Giniel de Villiers edged Mr Dakar Stéphane Peterhansel to the final podium spot. Peterhansel said: “We did two big mistakes and lost a lot of time. This is the race though. At the end, I still don’t know if I will continue, I need time to think about it.” Bike Matthias Walkner created a little bit of history in Argentina by becoming the first Austrian to ever win the bike category of the Dakar Rally. The 31-year-old has been a consistent presence towards the front of the pack throughout the race and in a stage won by Kevin Benavides, Walkner brought his KTM home in eighth to start the party. Walkner said: “When you are leading with such a big gap in the biggest event in our sport, it was crazy. Now it is time to celebrate. I was never the guy who was winning a lot or losing a lot, just riding always near the front.” His team runs to celebrate the 1st place of @MatthiasWalkner on ???? // Su equipo corre para celebrar el 1er lugar de M. Walkner en ???? ???????????? pic.twitter.com/WxKOqQ2LF9 — DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) January 21, 2018 × Third-placed finisher Toby Price said: “It is crazy to be here at the finish line on the podium. I couldn’t expect any more. We will come back bigger and better for the next one.” Laia Sanz, who finished 12th, said: “It was really tough, but to finish in this position is really good. I can be happy. I have started eight Dakar’s and finished all eight which is fantastic.” Quad Chilean Ignacio Casale has dominated this race from start to finish. After winning the opening three stages in Peru he never looked back and comfortably lifted a second title to add to his 2014 triumph with a huge margin of one hour and 38 minutes to spare. "This event changed my life " said the #quads winner @IgnacioCasale ???????? about #DakarRally // "Este evento me cambió la vida" dice el ganador de quads Casale ???????? pic.twitter.com/unarQ4Rd3k — DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) January 21, 2018 × Truck The records will show Eduard Nikolaev won this race by nearly four hours, however, it was far from that simple. The Russian was involved in a neck and neck fight with Federico Villagra up until the penultimate stage when the Argentine suffered a mechanical and had to abandon. Nikolaev acknowledged after: “Villagra is a very fast competitor. Congratulations to all the teams.” ???? GC - TRUCKS???????? 1. Eduard Nikolaev 2. Siarhei Viazovich +3h57'17" 3. Airat Maardev +5h22'34" More / más info > https://t.co/R0ezQ07YE0 #Dakar2018 pic.twitter.com/82K3SeAJ4U — DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) January 20, 2018 ×

The 40th edition of Dakar rally ends in Argentina

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