The Quad Leaders Summit and Global Geopolitics
The year 2025 marked a pivotal period in global geopolitics, significantly influenced by the return of President Donald Trump to the White House. This change has stirred strategic shifts worldwide, with the Indo-Pacific emerging as a prime arena of competition between China and the United States.
The Quad's Evolution and Objectives
- The Quad, comprising India, Australia, Japan, and the U.S., serves as a crucial forum aimed at establishing a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, promoting a free, open, and inclusive region.
- Since its revival in 2017, the Quad has gained momentum, notably influenced by Mr. Trump, a key architect of its resurgence.
Challenges and Developments in 2025
- Despite the Quad's significance, it failed to hold a leader-level summit in 2025, leading to speculations about its future.
- 2025 was considered a year of interregnum for the Quad, yet the group's initiatives continued, indicating resilience.
Key Initiatives and Activities
- The Quad-at-Sea: Ship Observer Mission began in June 2025, enhancing Coast Guard cooperation.
- The Ports of the Future Partnership met in Mumbai in October 2025 to advance sustainable port infrastructure.
- The 'Malabar' naval exercise was held in Guam to improve maritime cooperation among the Quad nations.
Leadership Changes and Future Prospects
- Leadership changes in the U.S. and Japan with President Trump and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi have impacted the Quad's activities.
- A leader-level summit is crucial for maintaining momentum and strategic convergence. Diplomatic efforts are underway for a summit in early 2026.
Despite the challenges in 2025, the Quad has demonstrated remarkable resilience and continues to be a force for global good.
