In a swift one-day summit in Delaware, the Quad reaffirmed its commitment to countering China’s growing influence on the global stage. Despite public declarations labeling China as a threat to global stability and prosperity, the underlying dynamics of the Quad reveal internal challenges that could hinder its effectiveness.
The agenda of the meeting clearly centered on containing China, yet it is not solely driven by the United States or Australia—the most vocal proponents within the alliance. Instead, the direction appears to be significantly influenced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India's stance creates a delicate balance, especially given its actions that sometimes contradict Quad’s objectives, such as increasing imports of Russian oil, which have surged 13-fold since the imposition of sanctions in 2024.
This duality within the Quad is evident as India navigates its relationship with Russia, further complicating the alliance’s unified front against China. The necessity to maintain India’s support acts as a constraint, making the Quad's strength as robust as its least committed member. As India chairs the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s Defense Ministers' Meeting, the Quad must navigate these internal fractures to present a cohesive strategy.
This ongoing balancing act raises questions about the Quad's ultimate effectiveness in its mission to ensure global stability and counterbalance China’s ambitions. As global citizens, business enthusiasts, and thought leaders watch closely, the Quad’s future actions will significantly influence international relations and economic trends worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
