What to Anticipate as Biden Hosts the Final Quad Summit during His Administration
President Joe Biden is gearing up to host the Quad Leaders Summit with leaders from Australia, India, and Japan at his private residence in Delaware on Sept. 21. This summit marks an important opportunity for Biden to shape policy in the Indo-Pacific region before the end of his term in office.
The Quad, consisting of the United States, Australia, India, and Japan, shares interests in maintaining maritime access in the Indo-Pacific region and potentially forming an alliance to counter the expansionist goals of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Originally planned to be hosted by India, scheduling conflicts led to Biden taking the opportunity to host the fourth in-person Quad Leaders Summit. This summit is expected to be a significant event in Biden’s foreign policy record.
The Quad faced challenges in its early years but has steadily increased cooperation, with a focus on maritime security and upholding international law in the region. While discussions on forming a military alliance to counter China have been part of the debate, the Quad has also emphasized shared values and policy objectives.
Previewing the upcoming summit, White House officials indicated that discussions on China and regional challenges will be a key focus of the meeting. While a formal military alliance is unlikely, the Quad members continue to enhance their security partnerships in the region.
With a diverse agenda including health security, natural disaster response, maritime security, and critical technologies, the Quad leaders aim to address a wide range of issues beyond regional security.
Looking ahead, the November U.S. elections will determine the future of the Quad’s engagement, with potential continuity in policy expected regardless of the election outcome.
In conclusion, the Quad Leaders Summit presents an opportunity for President Biden and other Quad leaders to strengthen cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and address ongoing challenges in the region.
