In a significant development for the world and the region, the first-ever summit of Quad leaders is being planned and is expected to take place very soon. While no time schedule is known as of now, the meet, expected to be held virtually, will bring together US President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, and Japan's Yoshihide Suga.

Quad leaders to hold a summit this month

US, Japan, India and Australia to hold quad meet, till date Australian PM Scott Morrison has confirmed his plans of attending the meet. The meet will happen amid China's maritime assertiveness in the region.

Quad 'heads of nations' meet to focus on Indo-Pacific region

US, Japan, India, Australia to hold Quad meets

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday. The meet comes almost around a month since new US President Joe Biden took charge and shows a reaffirmation of Washinton's approach on Quad and Indo Pacific visit.

Myanmar was the key focus of the meet with separate read-outs from India, Japan, and the US mentioning it. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "In the discussion pertaining to recent developments in Myanmar, the upholding of rule of law and the democratic transition was reiterated by India."

The country witnessed a coup on February 1 with the military overthrowing an elected government. The country has since seen several protests and has been a cause of concern globally as well.

The US State Department release said, "The Ministers discussed.... the urgent need to restore the democratically elected government in Burma, and the priority of strengthening democratic resilience in the broader region."

The US refers to Myanmar as Burma. The name of the country was officially changed to Myanmar in 1989 by the military government but remains a globally contested issue.

The Quad meeting comes amidst aggressive china with quad readouts obliquely mentioning it with calls for "advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region, including support for freedom of navigation and territorial integrity."

The MEA added, "The Ministers emphasised their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas and peaceful resolution of disputes."

The Covid cooperation was another factor as last year saw Quad plus meet at foreign secretaries' level meeting on a regular basis to discuss the issue.

The Indian read out said, "They expressed their commitment to cooperate in addressing this challenge, enhancing access to affordable vaccines, medicines and medical equipment. India’s efforts at providing vaccines to 74 countries was recognised and appreciated."

Amid the pandemic, India has sent Covid vaccines to more than 20 countries in the region, barring Pakistan.

Quad FMs had met last year in Tokyo in a physical meeting. The first Quad meet happened in New York in 2019 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday.

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday. The meet comes almost around a month since new US President Joe Biden took charge and shows a reaffirmation of Washinton's approach on Quad and Indo Pacific visit. Myanmar was the key focus of the meet with separate read-outs from India, Japan, and the US mentioning it. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "In the discussion pertaining to recent developments in Myanmar, the upholding of rule of law and the democratic transition was reiterated by India." The country witnessed a coup on February 1 with the military overthrowing an elected government. The country has since seen several protests and has been a cause of concern globally as well. The US State Department release said, "The Ministers discussed.... the urgent need to restore the democratically elected government in Burma, and the priority of strengthening democratic resilience in the broader region." The US refers to Myanmar as Burma. The name of the country was officially changed to Myanmar in 1989 by the military government but remains a globally contested issue. The Quad meeting comes amidst aggressive china with quad readouts obliquely mentioning it with calls for "advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region, including support for freedom of navigation and territorial integrity." The MEA added, "The Ministers emphasised their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas and peaceful resolution of disputes." The Covid cooperation was another factor as last year saw Quad plus meet at foreign secretaries' level meeting on a regular basis to discuss the issue. The Indian read out said, "They expressed their commitment to cooperate in addressing this challenge, enhancing access to affordable vaccines, medicines and medical equipment. India’s efforts at providing vaccines to 74 countries was recognised and appreciated." Amid the pandemic, India has sent Covid vaccines to more than 20 countries in the region, barring Pakistan. Quad FMs had met last year in Tokyo in a physical meeting. The first Quad meet happened in New York in 2019 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Quad FMs meet for third time; India calls for upholding rule of law in Myanmar

The US, Japan, Australia, and India will hold virtual Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meet. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be speaking to his counterparts as part of efforts to balance China’s growing military and economic power.

US to hold virtual Quad meet with Australia, India and Japan

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release.&nbsp;

Adding further on the importance of the Quad, the statement said that Quad is a key pillar of Australia's international agenda and complements our other bilateral, regional and multilateral engagement, including with ASEAN.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-quad-meet-pentagon-says-relationship-with-india-a-priority-364484">Ahead of Quad meet, Pentagon says relationship with India a 'priority'</a>

As per the statement, later on Thursday, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Senator Marise Payne will join her counterparts, US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, Japan Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for the third Quad foreign ministers' meeting.&nbsp;

This dialogue will allow our nations to advance our shared interests in a secure and prosperous region. The Quad's positive agenda will enable us to progress cooperation among four Indo-Pacific democracies across a range of areas, including to support the region recover from the economic and health impacts of Covid-19, read the release.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-ladakh-india-revamps-defence-strategy-364381">After Ladakh, India revamps defence strategy</a>

The third Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meeting will be held on February 18 to exchange views on regional and global issues, especially practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The meeting will be in continuation of the views exchanged in the last quad meeting held in Tokyo on October 6 last year. The Quad initiative is expected to put an end to the economic coercion tactics of China and cooperation with Japan and other allies will checkmate Chinese development assistance and its hegemony in the region.

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release.

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release. Adding further on the importance of the Quad, the statement said that Quad is a key pillar of Australia's international agenda and complements our other bilateral, regional and multilateral engagement, including with ASEAN. Also Read: Ahead of Quad meet, Pentagon says relationship with India a 'priority' As per the statement, later on Thursday, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Senator Marise Payne will join her counterparts, US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, Japan Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for the third Quad foreign ministers' meeting. This dialogue will allow our nations to advance our shared interests in a secure and prosperous region. The Quad's positive agenda will enable us to progress cooperation among four Indo-Pacific democracies across a range of areas, including to support the region recover from the economic and health impacts of Covid-19, read the release. Also Read: After Ladakh, India revamps defence strategy The third Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meeting will be held on February 18 to exchange views on regional and global issues, especially practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The meeting will be in continuation of the views exchanged in the last quad meeting held in Tokyo on October 6 last year. The Quad initiative is expected to put an end to the economic coercion tactics of China and cooperation with Japan and other allies will checkmate Chinese development assistance and its hegemony in the region.

Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality, says Australia

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China.&nbsp;

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

Watch |

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"These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-potential-bulwark-against-chinas-increasing-activity-in-the-indo-pacific-364376">Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific</a>

The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region.&nbsp;

Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing.&nbsp;

The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot."

Recently Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday. Watch | "These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said. Also read | Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region. Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing. Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President Joe Biden that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing. The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot." Recently Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.

US to hold talks with 'Quad' partners despite China pressure

The Quad grouping makes sense, but to make a difference it needs to speak in one voice. The alliance has informally existed for 13 long years but seems to have restricted itself to mere posturing. WION's Palki Sharma says it's time the Quad become proactive and not reactive.

Gravitas: Time to turn Quad into a formal alliance?

India, United States, Japan and Australia are members of the&nbsp;Quad, an informal group that Washington has been promoting to work as a potential bulwark against China's increasing political, commercial and military activity in the Indo-Pacific.

The four nations that make up the so-called&nbsp;Quad&nbsp;group (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue)&nbsp;began their largest joint naval exercises over a decade ago, as part of efforts to balance China's vast military and economic power in the region.

It's an old group with a new life and the members need it, now more than ever.

Japan wants to end Chinese incursions in its waters.&nbsp;To counter China, Suga last month visited Vietnam and Indonesia to bolster ties with key Southeast Asian allies. That followed a meeting in Tokyo of foreign ministers from the "Quad" an informal group of Japan, Australia, the United States, and India.

While Australia wants to counter China's punitive taxes, America wants an open Indo-Pacific and India wants respect for its territorial integrity.

The grouping makes sense but for it to make a difference it must get its act together, speak in one voice and in a language of strength.

The Quad must be consistent and proactive and not&nbsp;compliant and reactive.

In 2004,&nbsp;a tsunami had devastated the Indian Ocean region and the world was looking to help. Four countries decided to coordinate their response, these include&nbsp;India, the United States, Japan and Australia.

They launched ad hoc operations to provide relief&nbsp;but the engagement was limited. In 2007,&nbsp;the ASEAN regional forum took place in the Philippines, the prime ministers of&nbsp;India, Japan and Australia&nbsp;met with then US&nbsp;Vice President Dick Cheney.

This was the first quadrilateral summit.&nbsp;A&nbsp;few months later,&nbsp;the four countries held a large multilateral naval exercise in the Indian Ocean

Hu Jintao, former president of the People's Republic of China,&nbsp;did not like it and&nbsp;exerted pressure.

China has denounced the&nbsp;Quad&nbsp;as an attempt to contain its development and urged the United States to drop its "Cold War mentality".

For&nbsp;the next 10 years, the Quad&nbsp;lay dormant. But&nbsp;2017 came as a big turning point as China's Belt and&nbsp;Road initiative was expanding.

Quad&nbsp;member nations saw what China was up to and&nbsp;resurrected the&nbsp;alliance with a meeting. The discussion revolved around a 'free and&nbsp;open Indo-Pacific.

After unleashing the coronavirus pandemic, China emerged as the single biggest threat to the stability of the Indo-Pacific.

Its&nbsp;increasing assertiveness,&nbsp;expanding maritime aggression&nbsp;and bizarre territorial claims has&nbsp;infuriated Quad members and the other countries in the region.

Beijing is currently fighting&nbsp;a trade war with the United States,&nbsp;a diplomatic war with Australia,&nbsp;a border conflict with India&nbsp;and multiple territorial disputes with Japan.

The&nbsp;threat is real and Quad is looking to evolve from an informal grouping into a formal alliance because together&nbsp;it has the potential to counter China's aggression.

China has an army of two&nbsp;million. Meanwhile, the combined army strength of&nbsp;India, United States, Japan and Australia&nbsp;is 2.2 million.

While the Chinese navy has a strength of 240,000,&nbsp;for the Quad, the naval forces stand at 760,000.

But even though the potential is immense,&nbsp;challenges remain, especially for India, proximity and the lack&nbsp;of a formal alliance are major concerns.

India is the only quad member that shares a border with China and is thus, the most vulnerable to Chinese retaliation.

Unlike Japan and&nbsp;Australia, India does not have a formal security alliance with America.

India sticks to the idea of non-alignment and strategic autonomy, it cannot command the Quad's intervention, should China provoke again.

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in a telephone call to strengthen Indo-Pacific security through the&nbsp;Quad&nbsp;grouping of countries that is seen as a way to push back against China's growing assertiveness in the region.

To be&nbsp;potent and effective, Quad and its members&nbsp;must establish a formal alliance and&nbsp;not wait for another pandemic&nbsp;to join hands.

India, United States, Japan and Australia are members of the Quad, an informal group that Washington has been promoting to work as a potential bulwark against China's increasing political, commercial and military activity in the Indo-Pacific.

India, United States, Japan and Australia are members of the Quad, an informal group that Washington has been promoting to work as a potential bulwark against China's increasing political, commercial and military activity in the Indo-Pacific. The four nations that make up the so-called Quad group (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) began their largest joint naval exercises over a decade ago, as part of efforts to balance China's vast military and economic power in the region. It's an old group with a new life and the members need it, now more than ever. Japan wants to end Chinese incursions in its waters. To counter China, Suga last month visited Vietnam and Indonesia to bolster ties with key Southeast Asian allies. That followed a meeting in Tokyo of foreign ministers from the "Quad" an informal group of Japan, Australia, the United States, and India. While Australia wants to counter China's punitive taxes, America wants an open Indo-Pacific and India wants respect for its territorial integrity. The grouping makes sense but for it to make a difference it must get its act together, speak in one voice and in a language of strength. The Quad must be consistent and proactive and not compliant and reactive. In 2004, a tsunami had devastated the Indian Ocean region and the world was looking to help. Four countries decided to coordinate their response, these include India, the United States, Japan and Australia. They launched ad hoc operations to provide relief but the engagement was limited. In 2007, the ASEAN regional forum took place in the Philippines, the prime ministers of India, Japan and Australia met with then US Vice President Dick Cheney. This was the first quadrilateral summit. A few months later, the four countries held a large multilateral naval exercise in the Indian Ocean Hu Jintao, former president of the People's Republic of China, did not like it and exerted pressure. China has denounced the Quad as an attempt to contain its development and urged the United States to drop its "Cold War mentality". For the next 10 years, the Quad lay dormant. But 2017 came as a big turning point as China's Belt and Road initiative was expanding. Quad member nations saw what China was up to and resurrected the alliance with a meeting. The discussion revolved around a 'free and open Indo-Pacific. After unleashing the coronavirus pandemic, China emerged as the single biggest threat to the stability of the Indo-Pacific. Its increasing assertiveness, expanding maritime aggression and bizarre territorial claims has infuriated Quad members and the other countries in the region. Beijing is currently fighting a trade war with the United States, a diplomatic war with Australia, a border conflict with India and multiple territorial disputes with Japan. The threat is real and Quad is looking to evolve from an informal grouping into a formal alliance because together it has the potential to counter China's aggression. China has an army of two million. Meanwhile, the combined army strength of India, United States, Japan and Australia is 2.2 million. While the Chinese navy has a strength of 240,000, for the Quad, the naval forces stand at 760,000. But even though the potential is immense, challenges remain, especially for India, proximity and the lack of a formal alliance are major concerns. India is the only quad member that shares a border with China and is thus, the most vulnerable to Chinese retaliation. Unlike Japan and Australia, India does not have a formal security alliance with America. India sticks to the idea of non-alignment and strategic autonomy, it cannot command the Quad's intervention, should China provoke again. US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in a telephone call to strengthen Indo-Pacific security through the Quad grouping of countries that is seen as a way to push back against China's growing assertiveness in the region. To be potent and effective, Quad and its members must establish a formal alliance and not wait for another pandemic to join hands.

Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific

The United States on Tuesday described the Quad, or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue as a "key example" of Washington working with its "closest partners" for the "good" of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

"What I would say generally is that the Quad is a key example of the United States and our closest partners, including, in this case, India, pulling together for the good of a free and open Indo-Pacific region," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was quoted as saying to reporters at his daily news conference.

Watch |&nbsp;

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He also said that US views Quad, the grouping of Australia, India, Japan and the US, as having "essential momentum" and "important potential" to deepen engagement on areas of "traditional focus" and to "confront defining issues of our time".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-welcomes-indias-rise-as-leading-global-power-as-jaishankar-blinken-talk-over-phone-362581">US welcomes India's rise as 'leading global power' as Jaishankar-Blinken talk over phone</a>

"We view the Quad as having essential momentum and important potential, and that's why we're going to build on it by deepening cooperation on areas of traditional focus, and that includes maritime security, while also working closely with Quad partners to confront some of the defining issues of our time," the spokesperson said.

These issues include the coronavirus pandemic, climate and "democratic resilience as well," Price said.&nbsp;

On the possibility of reports of a Quad summit proposed by the Biden administration, the spokesperson said, "we don't have anything to announce at this time".&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United States on Tuesday described the Quad, or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue as a "key example" of Washington working with its "closest partners" for the "good" of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

The United States on Tuesday described the Quad, or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue as a "key example" of Washington working with its "closest partners" for the "good" of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. "What I would say generally is that the Quad is a key example of the United States and our closest partners, including, in this case, India, pulling together for the good of a free and open Indo-Pacific region," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was quoted as saying to reporters at his daily news conference. Watch | He also said that US views Quad, the grouping of Australia, India, Japan and the US, as having "essential momentum" and "important potential" to deepen engagement on areas of "traditional focus" and to "confront defining issues of our time". Also read | US welcomes India's rise as 'leading global power' as Jaishankar-Blinken talk over phone "We view the Quad as having essential momentum and important potential, and that's why we're going to build on it by deepening cooperation on areas of traditional focus, and that includes maritime security, while also working closely with Quad partners to confront some of the defining issues of our time," the spokesperson said. These issues include the coronavirus pandemic, climate and "democratic resilience as well," Price said. On the possibility of reports of a Quad summit proposed by the Biden administration, the spokesperson said, "we don't have anything to announce at this time".

US says Quad 'key example' of Washington working with allies for 'good' of Indo-Pacific

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US State Secretary Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation, focusing on developments in the Indo-Pacific as well as cooperation under the framework of Quad.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar speaks to US State Secretary Blinken

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US President Joe Biden discussed an open& free Indo-pacific, COVID-19 pandemic, climate change on a phone call. This was the first conversation between the two leaders after Biden's inauguration,

Modi & Biden discuss Indo-pacific, Quad & COVID on a phone call

US Secretary of State&nbsp;Anthony Blinken on Friday underscored&nbsp;India's role as a preeminent partner in the Indo-Pacific and the importance of working together to expand the regional cooperation, including through the Quad in his conversation with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

They discussed issues of mutual concern, including COVID-19 vaccination efforts, regional developments and next steps in expanding bilateral ties, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Friday.

It was Blinken's first telephonic conversation with Jaishankar after he assumed the charge of the top American diplomat early this week.

''Both agreed to coordinate closely on global developments and look forward to meeting in person at the earliest opportunity,''&nbsp;Price said in a readout of the call, which was the first communication between them after January 20 when Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States.

''I was delighted to speak today with my good friend @DrSJaishankar to discuss US-India priorities. We reaffirmed the importance of the US-India relationship and discussed ways we can better seize new opportunities and combat shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond,''&nbsp;the Secretary of State said on Twitter.

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I was delighted to speak today with my good friend <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> to discuss U.S.-India priorities. We reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-India relationship and discussed ways we can better seize new opportunities and combat shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1355218003990863872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After occupying Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department, Blinken has spoken to his counterparts from over a dozen countries including Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Britain, Japan, Germany, France, Israel and South Africa.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Friday underscored India's role as a preeminent partner in the Indo-Pacific and the importance of working together to expand the regional cooperation, including through the Quad in his conversation with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Friday underscored India's role as a preeminent partner in the Indo-Pacific and the importance of working together to expand the regional cooperation, including through the Quad in his conversation with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. They discussed issues of mutual concern, including COVID-19 vaccination efforts, regional developments and next steps in expanding bilateral ties, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Friday. It was Blinken's first telephonic conversation with Jaishankar after he assumed the charge of the top American diplomat early this week. ''Both agreed to coordinate closely on global developments and look forward to meeting in person at the earliest opportunity,'' Price said in a readout of the call, which was the first communication between them after January 20 when Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States. ''I was delighted to speak today with my good friend @DrSJaishankar to discuss US-India priorities. We reaffirmed the importance of the US-India relationship and discussed ways we can better seize new opportunities and combat shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond,'' the Secretary of State said on Twitter. I was delighted to speak today with my good friend @DrSJaishankar to discuss U.S.-India priorities. We reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-India relationship and discussed ways we can better seize new opportunities and combat shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) January 29, 2021 × After occupying Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department, Blinken has spoken to his counterparts from over a dozen countries including Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Britain, Japan, Germany, France, Israel and South Africa.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken discusses Quad; reaffirms growing ties with India

In the backdrop of the Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov raising question over Indo Pacific and Quad, top Russian diplomats in Delhi has said Moscow does understand, "India's national concept on Indo pacific" but sees Quad as "detrimental" due to lack of inclusivity.&nbsp;

Russian Envoy Nikolay R. Kudashev said, “As far as the Indian ocean initiative, raised by PM Modi, we have no problem with Indian vision". Adding, "We offer a unifying agenda a concept of larger Eurasian partnership which could and we should bring 2 ends together, the Russian vision, the Chinese vision, the Indian vision. The alternative is the lines of division.”

Recently during his remarks at the general meeting of the Russian International Affairs Council, Russian FM Lavrov also mentioned Indo Pacific and quad terming them anti-China. While China sees Indo Pacific and quad very suspiciously, Moscow isn't keen either on it, given it backed by Washington and the west.&nbsp;

Russian Deputy Envoy Roman N. Babushkin pointed out, "while understanding and recognizing the Indian national concept for Indo pacific, let us don't forget about, no unified vision for Indo Pacific currently because we know many countries do promote their own Indo pacific visions.”

Calling mechanism "non-inclusive" and "apprehensions about the intentions" Roman explained, they "threaten to jeopardies regional cooperation, for example, ASEAN centrality and ASEAN unity and that Quad will be detrimental to the inclusive dialogue to the region."

Russia, India ties are much celebrated and historically close. Both PM Modi and President Putin spoke 4 times this year and have annual summits that alternate between the 2 countries. Earlier this year, both Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited Russia amidst the pandemic to take part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation defence and foreign ministers meet.

Asked about ties between India and China, the Russian envoy said, "As a friend to both India and China we would welcome enhanced dialogue between Delhi and Beijing" and "this is the key in reaching progress in the ties and regional security and stability"

The Moscow meets saw, Indian and Chinese defence and foreign ministers meet. After India and Chinese foreign minister meet, both countries came out with 5 points joint statement to diffuse the heightened tension.&nbsp;

The envoy also spoke the S400 sanctions by America, saying, "it is hard to predict and let the Biden administration first announce publicly its stance...otherwise, we do not recognize unilateral sanctions as....interstate relations"

Trump administration had imposed sanctions on Turkey for buying the S400 system from Russia. India will also get the system soon, raising fears of possible American sanctions.

In the backdrop of the Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov raising question over Indo Pacific and Quad, top Russian diplomats in Delhi has said Moscow does understand, "India's national concept on Indo pacific" but sees Quad as "detrimental" due to lack of inclusivity.

In the backdrop of the Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov raising question over Indo Pacific and Quad, top Russian diplomats in Delhi has said Moscow does understand, "India's national concept on Indo pacific" but sees Quad as "detrimental" due to lack of inclusivity. Russian Envoy Nikolay R. Kudashev said, “As far as the Indian ocean initiative, raised by PM Modi, we have no problem with Indian vision". Adding, "We offer a unifying agenda a concept of larger Eurasian partnership which could and we should bring 2 ends together, the Russian vision, the Chinese vision, the Indian vision. The alternative is the lines of division.” Recently during his remarks at the general meeting of the Russian International Affairs Council, Russian FM Lavrov also mentioned Indo Pacific and quad terming them anti-China. While China sees Indo Pacific and quad very suspiciously, Moscow isn't keen either on it, given it backed by Washington and the west. Russian Deputy Envoy Roman N. Babushkin pointed out, "while understanding and recognizing the Indian national concept for Indo pacific, let us don't forget about, no unified vision for Indo Pacific currently because we know many countries do promote their own Indo pacific visions.” Calling mechanism "non-inclusive" and "apprehensions about the intentions" Roman explained, they "threaten to jeopardies regional cooperation, for example, ASEAN centrality and ASEAN unity and that Quad will be detrimental to the inclusive dialogue to the region." Russia, India ties are much celebrated and historically close. Both PM Modi and President Putin spoke 4 times this year and have annual summits that alternate between the 2 countries. Earlier this year, both Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited Russia amidst the pandemic to take part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation defence and foreign ministers meet. Asked about ties between India and China, the Russian envoy said, "As a friend to both India and China we would welcome enhanced dialogue between Delhi and Beijing" and "this is the key in reaching progress in the ties and regional security and stability" The Moscow meets saw, Indian and Chinese defence and foreign ministers meet. After India and Chinese foreign minister meet, both countries came out with 5 points joint statement to diffuse the heightened tension. The envoy also spoke the S400 sanctions by America, saying, "it is hard to predict and let the Biden administration first announce publicly its stance...otherwise, we do not recognize unilateral sanctions as....interstate relations" Trump administration had imposed sanctions on Turkey for buying the S400 system from Russia. India will also get the system soon, raising fears of possible American sanctions.

Understand Indian concept on Indo-Pacific, but Quad detrimental to inclusivity: Russia

Senior officials of the Quad grouping - India, Australia, Japan, and the US met for the third time virtually this year with focus on COVID-19 vaccine, Indo-Pacific among others.

Quad senior officials meet for third time this year

India has said that its relations with Russia "stand on their own merits", after Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov remarked that the west is attempting to "undermine our close partnership and privileged relations" with New Delhi.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said, "India has always pursued an independent foreign policy based on its national interest. India’s relationship with each country is independent of its relations with third countries." Adding, "We hope that this is well understood and appreciated by all our partners."

Watch |&nbsp;

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New Delhi and Moscow have Special &amp; Privileged Strategic Partnership and this year marks the 20th anniversary of the strategic partnership between both the countries.&nbsp;

During his remarks at the general meeting of the Russian International Affairs Council, FM Lavrov also mentioned Indo Pacific and quad terming it anti-China.&nbsp;

Recalling the Indian Prime Minister's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore in June of 2018, MEA spokesperson pointed out that "India does not see the Indo-Pacific region as a strategy or as a club of limited members or as a grouping that seeks to dominate. It is not directed against any country. It stands for a free, open, and inclusive region."

This is not the first time the Russian foreign minister has commented on the Indo-Pacific concept. Earlier in this year, speaking at the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi he called the concept "divisive" and "India smart to not to get into it".

India has said that its relations with Russia "stand on their own merits", after Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov remarked that the west is attempting to "undermine our close partnership and privileged relations" with New Delhi.

India has said that its relations with Russia "stand on their own merits", after Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov remarked that the west is attempting to "undermine our close partnership and privileged relations" with New Delhi. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said, "India has always pursued an independent foreign policy based on its national interest. India’s relationship with each country is independent of its relations with third countries." Adding, "We hope that this is well understood and appreciated by all our partners." Watch | New Delhi and Moscow have Special & Privileged Strategic Partnership and this year marks the 20th anniversary of the strategic partnership between both the countries. During his remarks at the general meeting of the Russian International Affairs Council, FM Lavrov also mentioned Indo Pacific and quad terming it anti-China. Recalling the Indian Prime Minister's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore in June of 2018, MEA spokesperson pointed out that "India does not see the Indo-Pacific region as a strategy or as a club of limited members or as a grouping that seeks to dominate. It is not directed against any country. It stands for a free, open, and inclusive region." This is not the first time the Russian foreign minister has commented on the Indo-Pacific concept. Earlier in this year, speaking at the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi he called the concept "divisive" and "India smart to not to get into it".

Relations with Moscow stands on its 'own merit', says India after Russian foreign minister's remarks

The Indian Ocean is crucial to China's trade and energy. But it is India that enjoys a strategic advantage in these waters. What happens if India decides to stage a blockade? WION's Molly Gambhir tells you the answer.

Gravitas: Why China fears India

Members of Quad are&nbsp;stepping up the heat to counter China's belligerence and growing influence in the South China Sea and the East China Sea.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Australian leader Scott Morrison on Tuesday agreed in principle on a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) that will more closely align the US&nbsp;allies through a legal framework allowing each other's troops to visit for training and to conduct joint military operations.

Suga said the agreement ensures "Further reinforcement of bilateral corporation in the areas of security, defense cooperation, economy, and others are enshrined in this statement and indeed I wish to strengthen Japan-Australia collaboration even further."

Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said ''We expect to increase our regional cooperation in many forms and the Malabar exercise have been conducted together with the United States and together with India and we would expect to further expand our cooperation in those areas. That's the whole point of streamlining the arrangements with a status of forces agreement of this nature."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-rebuffs-chinese-grievance-list-344020">Australian PM rebuffs Chinese grievance list</a>

Zhao Lijian, a spokesperson of Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said "China is strongly dissatisfied and opposed to the unwarranted accusations against China in the statement issued following the leaders' meeting that grossly interfered in China's internal affairs.''

''The countries concerned should have a clear understanding of the situation and stop the wrongdoings that undermine China's sovereignty and interests and interfere in China's internal affairs," he added.

The agreement between Canberra and Tokyo, Japan's first with another country since a similar agreement with Washington in 1960, comes as the two countries work more closely with the United States and India as part of an informal grouping known as the "Quad" as they grow more concerned about Chinese activity in the South China Sea and the East China Sea.

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Suga hosted foreign ministers from the&nbsp;Quad&nbsp;in Tokyo last month before heading to Vietnam and Indonesia to deepen ties with key Southeast Asian nations.

In a call with Suga on Thursday, President-elect Joe Biden said his incoming administration was committed to maintaining that close partnership.

To counter China, Suga last month visited Vietnam and Indonesia to bolster ties with key Southeast Asian allies. That followed a meeting in Tokyo of foreign ministers from the "Quad" an informal group of Japan, Australia, the United States, and India.

China, which insists its intentions in the Asia-Pacific region are peaceful, described the&nbsp;Quad, as a "mini-NATO" aimed at containing it.

The Japan-Australia agreement also came under similar criticism in China on Tuesday, with the state-backed newspaper the Global Times saying the United States "is using its two anchors in the Asia-Pacific region to push forward the construction of an Asian version of NATO."

&nbsp;

Members of Quad are stepping up the heat to counter China's belligerence and growing influence in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Australian leader Scott Morrison on Tuesday agreed in principle on a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) that will more closely align the US allies through a legal framework allowing each other's troops to visit for training and to conduct joint military operations.

Members of Quad are stepping up the heat to counter China's belligerence and growing influence in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Australian leader Scott Morrison on Tuesday agreed in principle on a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) that will more closely align the US allies through a legal framework allowing each other's troops to visit for training and to conduct joint military operations. Suga said the agreement ensures "Further reinforcement of bilateral corporation in the areas of security, defense cooperation, economy, and others are enshrined in this statement and indeed I wish to strengthen Japan-Australia collaboration even further." Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said ''We expect to increase our regional cooperation in many forms and the Malabar exercise have been conducted together with the United States and together with India and we would expect to further expand our cooperation in those areas. That's the whole point of streamlining the arrangements with a status of forces agreement of this nature." Also read: Australian PM rebuffs Chinese grievance list Zhao Lijian, a spokesperson of Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said "China is strongly dissatisfied and opposed to the unwarranted accusations against China in the statement issued following the leaders' meeting that grossly interfered in China's internal affairs.'' ''The countries concerned should have a clear understanding of the situation and stop the wrongdoings that undermine China's sovereignty and interests and interfere in China's internal affairs," he added. The agreement between Canberra and Tokyo, Japan's first with another country since a similar agreement with Washington in 1960, comes as the two countries work more closely with the United States and India as part of an informal grouping known as the "Quad" as they grow more concerned about Chinese activity in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. × Suga hosted foreign ministers from the Quad in Tokyo last month before heading to Vietnam and Indonesia to deepen ties with key Southeast Asian nations. In a call with Suga on Thursday, President-elect Joe Biden said his incoming administration was committed to maintaining that close partnership. To counter China, Suga last month visited Vietnam and Indonesia to bolster ties with key Southeast Asian allies. That followed a meeting in Tokyo of foreign ministers from the "Quad" an informal group of Japan, Australia, the United States, and India. China, which insists its intentions in the Asia-Pacific region are peaceful, described the Quad, as a "mini-NATO" aimed at containing it. The Japan-Australia agreement also came under similar criticism in China on Tuesday, with the state-backed newspaper the Global Times saying the United States "is using its two anchors in the Asia-Pacific region to push forward the construction of an Asian version of NATO."

Quad: Japan, Australia align to counter China's growing regional influence

India, Australia, Japan, and the United States began the second phase of the Malabar naval exercise in the northern Arabian Sea, with all four countries keeping a wary eye on China's growing military power.

The mega exercise is taking place at a time India and China are locked in an over six-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh.

The four nations make up the so-called&nbsp;Quad&nbsp;group (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), established in 2007 to counter growing Chinese influence. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-phase-of-malabar-exercise-begins-in-northern-arabian-sea-343766" hreflang="en">Second phase of Malabar exercise begins in northern Arabian Sea</a>

Indian Navy's fleet tanker ship INS Deepak carried out wargame drills during the second phase of the ongoing exercise joint naval exercise in the Indian Ocean on Wednesday.

Earlier,&nbsp;Indian Navy aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya carried out wargame drills along with US-made supercarrier USS Nimitz and Japanese and Australian warships during the second phase of joint naval exercise in the Indian Ocean on Tuesday.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/malabar-military-exercise-2020-india-us-japan-australian-navies-to-set-sail-339090" hreflang="en">Malabar military exercise 2020: India, US, Japan &amp; Australian navies to set sail</a>

India, the United States, Japan, and Australia began their largest joint naval exercises in over a decade earlier this month, seen as part of efforts to balance China's vast military and economic power in the region.

The annual "Malabar" wargames that India holds with the United States and Japan have been expanded to include Australia this year to cover all members of the&nbsp;Quad, an informal group of the four largest democracies in the Indo-Pacific.

The first phase of the Malabar exercise took place in the Bay of Bengal from November 3 to 6 and featured a number of complex drills including anti-submarine and anti-air warfare operations.

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The Australian Navy has deployed its HMAS Ballarat, an Anzac-class frigate while the Japanese Navy has sent its leading destroyer JS Murasame for the exercise.

This exercise is involving coordinated operations of increasing complexity among the navies of the four countries which are part of the Quad or Quadrilateral Coalition, officials said.

"The two carriers, along with other ships, submarines, and aircraft of the participating navies, would be engaged in high-intensity naval operations over four days," the Indian Navy said on Monday.

A carrier battle group or carrier strike group is a mega naval fleet comprising an aircraft carrier, accompanied by a large number of destroyers, frigates and other ships.

The Navy said the exercise will include cross-deck flying operations and advanced air defence exercises by MIG 29K fighters of Vikramaditya and F-18 fighters and E2C Hawkeye from Nimitz.

Apart from Vikramaditya and its fighter and helicopter air-wings, the Indian Navy is also deploying destroyers Kolkata and Chennai, stealth frigate Talwar and fleet support ship Deepak in the exercise.

The Indian contingent is being led by Rear Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet.

Last month, India announced that Australia will be part of the Malabar exercise which effectively made it a drill by all four member nations of the Quad which is primarily focusing on containing China's military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region.

China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Global Times ran a piece that said the exercise "is an obvious step toward the establishment of a mini-version of NATO in Asia."

The invitation by India to the Australian Navy for the exercise came two weeks after foreign ministers of the 'Quad' member nations held extensive talks in Tokyo with a focus on enhancing their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

The Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean. Japan became a permanent member of the exercise in 2015.

India, Australia, Japan, and the United States began the second phase of the Malabar naval exercise in the northern Arabian Sea, with all four countries keeping a wary eye on China's growing military power.

India, Australia, Japan, and the United States began the second phase of the Malabar naval exercise in the northern Arabian Sea, with all four countries keeping a wary eye on China's growing military power. The mega exercise is taking place at a time India and China are locked in an over six-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh. The four nations make up the so-called Quad group (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), established in 2007 to counter growing Chinese influence. Also read: Second phase of Malabar exercise begins in northern Arabian Sea Indian Navy's fleet tanker ship INS Deepak carried out wargame drills during the second phase of the ongoing exercise joint naval exercise in the Indian Ocean on Wednesday. Earlier, Indian Navy aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya carried out wargame drills along with US-made supercarrier USS Nimitz and Japanese and Australian warships during the second phase of joint naval exercise in the Indian Ocean on Tuesday. Also see| Malabar military exercise 2020: India, US, Japan & Australian navies to set sail India, the United States, Japan, and Australia began their largest joint naval exercises in over a decade earlier this month, seen as part of efforts to balance China's vast military and economic power in the region. The annual "Malabar" wargames that India holds with the United States and Japan have been expanded to include Australia this year to cover all members of the Quad, an informal group of the four largest democracies in the Indo-Pacific. The first phase of the Malabar exercise took place in the Bay of Bengal from November 3 to 6 and featured a number of complex drills including anti-submarine and anti-air warfare operations. × The Australian Navy has deployed its HMAS Ballarat, an Anzac-class frigate while the Japanese Navy has sent its leading destroyer JS Murasame for the exercise. This exercise is involving coordinated operations of increasing complexity among the navies of the four countries which are part of the Quad or Quadrilateral Coalition, officials said. "The two carriers, along with other ships, submarines, and aircraft of the participating navies, would be engaged in high-intensity naval operations over four days," the Indian Navy said on Monday. A carrier battle group or carrier strike group is a mega naval fleet comprising an aircraft carrier, accompanied by a large number of destroyers, frigates and other ships. The Navy said the exercise will include cross-deck flying operations and advanced air defence exercises by MIG 29K fighters of Vikramaditya and F-18 fighters and E2C Hawkeye from Nimitz. Apart from Vikramaditya and its fighter and helicopter air-wings, the Indian Navy is also deploying destroyers Kolkata and Chennai, stealth frigate Talwar and fleet support ship Deepak in the exercise. The Indian contingent is being led by Rear Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet. Last month, India announced that Australia will be part of the Malabar exercise which effectively made it a drill by all four member nations of the Quad which is primarily focusing on containing China's military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region. China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The Global Times ran a piece that said the exercise "is an obvious step toward the establishment of a mini-version of NATO in Asia." The invitation by India to the Australian Navy for the exercise came two weeks after foreign ministers of the 'Quad' member nations held extensive talks in Tokyo with a focus on enhancing their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean. Japan became a permanent member of the exercise in 2015.

Malabar exercise: Quad evolving from an informal partnership to a strategic alliance

Indian Navy aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya carried out wargame drills along with U.S.-made supercarrier USS Nimitz and Japanese and Australian warships during the second phase of joint naval exercise in the Indian Ocean on Tuesday (November 17).

Phase two of ‘Malabar’ naval wargames begins in Indian Ocean

Navies of India, Australia, Japan and the US are participating in the Malabar exercise. China's state mouthpiece - Global times say the drills are an obvious step towards a 'mini-NATO'. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you how the QUAD alliance is evolving with the Malabar exercise.

Gravitas: What China thinks about the Malabar Exercise

Australia and Japan are deepening their defence partnership. The allies have reached a broad agreement that allows their forces to train in each other's territory. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you how this pact could strengthen the QUAD.

Gravitas: How Australia and Japan could strengthen the QUAD

Highlighting the "strong bipartisan support" in the US "to strengthen its strategic partnership with India", India's foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Thursday that India was looking to work with the new US Administration to "further strengthening and consolidating this multifaceted relationship for our mutual benefit and economic prosperity."

His comments come days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President-elect Joe Biden spoke with each other. The focus of their discussion was on Indo-Pacific, Covid pandemic, Climate Change among other things.

"As two mature, pluralistic and vibrant democracies with shared values, India and the US are natural partners of choice in forging a stable, peaceful and prosperous 21st century," Shringla pointed out,

"The India-US partnership is anchored in mutual trust and friendship, a shared commitment to democracy, converging strategic interests and the robust engagement of our citizens. I have personally witnessed the growing convergence in the strategic perspectives of India and the US over recent years," he said.

Foreign Secretary also spoke on commercial ties saying New Delhi believed that the US was a "natural partner for India" for its quest for building a resilient economy. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In October, 2+2 Dialogue took place between India and the US. Both sides have also been engaging in the Quad format and Malabar exercises. Foreign Ministers of the Quad countries (India, Australia, Japan and the US) had an in-person meeting in Tokyo earlier this year. New Delhi has also invited Australia for Malabar naval exercises that are underway now in the Indian Ocean.

Highlighting the "strong bipartisan support" in the US "to strengthen its strategic partnership with India", India's foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Thursday that India was looking to work with the new US Administration to "further strengthening and consolidating this multifaceted relationship for our mutual benefit and economic prosperity.

Highlighting the "strong bipartisan support" in the US "to strengthen its strategic partnership with India", India's foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Thursday that India was looking to work with the new US Administration to "further strengthening and consolidating this multifaceted relationship for our mutual benefit and economic prosperity." His comments come days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President-elect Joe Biden spoke with each other. The focus of their discussion was on Indo-Pacific, Covid pandemic, Climate Change among other things. "As two mature, pluralistic and vibrant democracies with shared values, India and the US are natural partners of choice in forging a stable, peaceful and prosperous 21st century," Shringla pointed out, "The India-US partnership is anchored in mutual trust and friendship, a shared commitment to democracy, converging strategic interests and the robust engagement of our citizens. I have personally witnessed the growing convergence in the strategic perspectives of India and the US over recent years," he said. Foreign Secretary also spoke on commercial ties saying New Delhi believed that the US was a "natural partner for India" for its quest for building a resilient economy. In October, 2+2 Dialogue took place between India and the US. Both sides have also been engaging in the Quad format and Malabar exercises. Foreign Ministers of the Quad countries (India, Australia, Japan and the US) had an in-person meeting in Tokyo earlier this year. New Delhi has also invited Australia for Malabar naval exercises that are underway now in the Indian Ocean.

Looking forward to work with new US administration: Foreign Secretary Shringla

The navies of India, the US, Australia, and Japan on Tuesday began the second phase of the Malabar naval exercise in the northern Arabian Sea involving two aircraft carriers and a number of frontline warships, submarines and maritime reconnaissance aircraft, officials said.

The major highlight of the four-day exercise is the participation of the Indian Navy's Vikramaditya carrier battle group and the Nimitz strike group of the US Navy. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship.

The first phase of the Malabar exercise took place in the Bay of Bengal from November 3 to 6 and featured a number of complex drills including anti-submarine and anti-air warfare operations.

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The Australian Navy has deployed its HMAS Ballarat, an Anzac-class frigate while the Japanese Navy has sent its leading destroyer JS Murasame for the exercise.

The mega exercise is taking place at a time India and China are locked in an over six-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh.

This exercise is involving coordinated operations of increasing complexity among the navies of the four countries which are part of the Quad or Quadrilateral Coalition, officials said.

"The two carriers, along with other ships, submarines, and aircraft of the participating navies, would be engaged in high-intensity naval operations over four days," the Indian Navy said on Monday.

A carrier battle group or carrier strike group is a mega naval fleet comprising an aircraft carrier, accompanied by a large number of destroyers, frigates and other ships.

The Navy said the exercise will include cross-deck flying operations and advanced air defence exercises by MIG 29K fighters of Vikramaditya and F-18 fighters and E2C Hawkeye from Nimitz.

Apart from Vikramaditya and its fighter and helicopter air-wings, the Indian Navy is also deploying destroyers Kolkata and Chennai, stealth frigate Talwar and fleet support ship Deepak in the exercise.

The Indian contingent is being led by Rear Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet.

Last month, India announced that Australia will be part of the Malabar exercise which effectively made it a drill by all four member nations of the Quad which is primarily focusing on containing China's military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region.

China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

The invitation by India to the Australian Navy for the exercise came two weeks after foreign ministers of the 'Quad' member nations held extensive talks in Tokyo with a focus on enhancing their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

The Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean. Japan became a permanent member of the exercise in 2015.

The navies of India, the US, Australia, and Japan on Tuesday began the second phase of the Malabar naval exercise in the northern Arabian Sea involving two aircraft carriers and a number of frontline warships, submarines and maritime reconnaissance aircraft, officials said.

The navies of India, the US, Australia, and Japan on Tuesday began the second phase of the Malabar naval exercise in the northern Arabian Sea involving two aircraft carriers and a number of frontline warships, submarines and maritime reconnaissance aircraft, officials said. The major highlight of the four-day exercise is the participation of the Indian Navy's Vikramaditya carrier battle group and the Nimitz strike group of the US Navy. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship. The first phase of the Malabar exercise took place in the Bay of Bengal from November 3 to 6 and featured a number of complex drills including anti-submarine and anti-air warfare operations. The Australian Navy has deployed its HMAS Ballarat, an Anzac-class frigate while the Japanese Navy has sent its leading destroyer JS Murasame for the exercise. The mega exercise is taking place at a time India and China are locked in an over six-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh. This exercise is involving coordinated operations of increasing complexity among the navies of the four countries which are part of the Quad or Quadrilateral Coalition, officials said. "The two carriers, along with other ships, submarines, and aircraft of the participating navies, would be engaged in high-intensity naval operations over four days," the Indian Navy said on Monday. A carrier battle group or carrier strike group is a mega naval fleet comprising an aircraft carrier, accompanied by a large number of destroyers, frigates and other ships. The Navy said the exercise will include cross-deck flying operations and advanced air defence exercises by MIG 29K fighters of Vikramaditya and F-18 fighters and E2C Hawkeye from Nimitz. Apart from Vikramaditya and its fighter and helicopter air-wings, the Indian Navy is also deploying destroyers Kolkata and Chennai, stealth frigate Talwar and fleet support ship Deepak in the exercise. The Indian contingent is being led by Rear Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet. Last month, India announced that Australia will be part of the Malabar exercise which effectively made it a drill by all four member nations of the Quad which is primarily focusing on containing China's military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region. China has been suspicious about the purpose of the Malabar exercise as it feels that the annual war game is an effort to contain its influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The invitation by India to the Australian Navy for the exercise came two weeks after foreign ministers of the 'Quad' member nations held extensive talks in Tokyo with a focus on enhancing their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a bilateral drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy in the Indian Ocean. Japan became a permanent member of the exercise in 2015.

Second phase of Malabar exercise begins in northern Arabian Sea

India, US, Japan, and Australia will come together to participate in a joint military exercise, Malabar 2020, which begins on Tuesday in the Bay of Bengal and will be carried out in two phases this month.

WION Dispatch: Navies of Quad nations to begin drill in Bay of Bengal

QUAD: U.S, India, Japan and Australia prepare for Malabar exercise

Amid China tension, Quad nations' naval drill in Bay of Bengal Today

The drill will be conducted on islands 200 kilometers from Kagoshima city in Japan until November 5

Japan and US begin major military exercise

Even as Quad, a grouping of US, India, Australia and Japan is increasingly gaining currency, the US has said it is an "alignment of democracies" and more common activities are on the anvil when it comes to it.

In response to a WION question at a briefing for reporters, a senior US administration official said, “Regarding the next level of the Quad, because the Quad is an informal arrangement – it’s an alignment of democracies in the Indo-Pacific – there are many different dimensions in which it can grow and expand, and more – all activities are on the table and meetings among officials in different places and at different levels and with different subject matter focus."

Adding, “So I think all of us are open to additional cooperation, coordination, and common activity. &nbsp;And I expect that the next year will see even more alignment of activities among the four countries in the Quad, and hopefully those that will bring in other like-minded nations as well."

Earlier this month the Quad Foreign ministers met in Tokyo. The second such meeting that happened in the last year. The grouping is seen with a lot of suspicion by Beijing, which sees it as anti-China grouping calling it "Asian Nato".

Asked about any plans for a summit-level Quad meeting, US administration officials said, "Regarding a Quad summit, no, there are no plans for that in the immediate short term, but anything could happen in the future.”

The quad meeting, India inviting Australia for Malabar exercises in the Indian Ocean in November and the visit of US secretary of state and defence to New Delhi for 2+2 dialogue come amid increase Chinese aggressiveness.&nbsp;

On next week's 2+2, a senior state department official said, "The 2+2 ministerial will serve as a capstone to review our many accomplishments as well as lay down next steps for the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership."

Four major themes at this years 2+2 will be, global cooperation, which includes public health collaboration, economic cooperation, which include partnership on energy and in space, people-to-people ties and defense and security ties.

Even as Quad, a grouping of US, India, Australia and Japan is increasingly gaining currency, the US has said it is an "alignment of democracies" and more common activities are on the anvil when it comes to it.

Even as Quad, a grouping of US, India, Australia and Japan is increasingly gaining currency, the US has said it is an "alignment of democracies" and more common activities are on the anvil when it comes to it. In response to a WION question at a briefing for reporters, a senior US administration official said, “Regarding the next level of the Quad, because the Quad is an informal arrangement – it’s an alignment of democracies in the Indo-Pacific – there are many different dimensions in which it can grow and expand, and more – all activities are on the table and meetings among officials in different places and at different levels and with different subject matter focus." Adding, “So I think all of us are open to additional cooperation, coordination, and common activity. And I expect that the next year will see even more alignment of activities among the four countries in the Quad, and hopefully those that will bring in other like-minded nations as well." Earlier this month the Quad Foreign ministers met in Tokyo. The second such meeting that happened in the last year. The grouping is seen with a lot of suspicion by Beijing, which sees it as anti-China grouping calling it "Asian Nato". Asked about any plans for a summit-level Quad meeting, US administration officials said, "Regarding a Quad summit, no, there are no plans for that in the immediate short term, but anything could happen in the future.” The quad meeting, India inviting Australia for Malabar exercises in the Indian Ocean in November and the visit of US secretary of state and defence to New Delhi for 2+2 dialogue come amid increase Chinese aggressiveness. On next week's 2+2, a senior state department official said, "The 2+2 ministerial will serve as a capstone to review our many accomplishments as well as lay down next steps for the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership." Four major themes at this years 2+2 will be, global cooperation, which includes public health collaboration, economic cooperation, which include partnership on energy and in space, people-to-people ties and defense and security ties.

Quad is an alignment of democracies: Senior US administration official to WION

Australia&nbsp;will take part in a large-scale military drill off the coast of India next month that will bring together a quartet of countries concerned by rising Chinese influence.&nbsp;

Australian Defence Minister Linda Reynolds late Monday said the exercise was about "demonstrating our collective resolve to support an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific",&nbsp;a well-used allusion to countering China's authoritarian power.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-a-potential-force-to-counter-china-needs-to-move-beyond-symbolism-333019">Quad: A potential force to counter China needs to move beyond symbolism</a>

The drill comes at a time of diplomatic tensions between China and Australia, economic tensions between China and the United States and military tensions between China and India.&nbsp;

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India, which holds the annual drills called Malabar with the US&nbsp;and Japanese navies each year, had&nbsp;invited Australia for next month's exercise in the Bay of Bengal, it said, in a sign of cooperation between the "Quad" countries.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-can-become-a-system-to-ensure-freedom-of-navigation-indias-chief-of-defence-staff-general-bipin-rawat-325051">Quad can become a system to ensure freedom of navigation: India's chief of Defence staff General Bipin Rawat</a>

"As India seeks to increase cooperation with other countries in the maritime security domain and in the light of increased defence cooperation with Australia, Malabar 2020 will see the participation of the Australian Navy," the defence ministry said in a statement.

Australia will be returning to the joint manoeuvres after its participation in 2007, which drew criticism from China at the time.

Over the last few decades, China has tried to significantly increase influence in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh, prompting acute concern in New Delhi.

The United States has been pushing for a deeper collaboration with Japan, India and Australia as a bulwark against China's growing regional influence.

Australia will take part in a large-scale military drill off the coast of India next month that will bring together a quartet of countries concerned by rising Chinese influence.

Australia will take part in a large-scale military drill off the coast of India next month that will bring together a quartet of countries concerned by rising Chinese influence. Australian Defence Minister Linda Reynolds late Monday said the exercise was about "demonstrating our collective resolve to support an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific", a well-used allusion to countering China's authoritarian power. Also read| Quad: A potential force to counter China needs to move beyond symbolism The drill comes at a time of diplomatic tensions between China and Australia, economic tensions between China and the United States and military tensions between China and India. India, which holds the annual drills called Malabar with the US and Japanese navies each year, had invited Australia for next month's exercise in the Bay of Bengal, it said, in a sign of cooperation between the "Quad" countries. Also read| Quad can become a system to ensure freedom of navigation: India's chief of Defence staff General Bipin Rawat "As India seeks to increase cooperation with other countries in the maritime security domain and in the light of increased defence cooperation with Australia, Malabar 2020 will see the participation of the Australian Navy," the defence ministry said in a statement. Australia will be returning to the joint manoeuvres after its participation in 2007, which drew criticism from China at the time. Over the last few decades, China has tried to significantly increase influence in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh, prompting acute concern in New Delhi. The United States has been pushing for a deeper collaboration with Japan, India and Australia as a bulwark against China's growing regional influence.

Eyeing China, Australia accepts India's invitation to rejoin 'quad' drill naval exercises

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