Atlanta: The Quad countries — India, the US, Japan and Australia — are exploring the creation of a dedicated business platform to strengthen commercial ties and identify joint investment opportunities, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.
The proposed platform would bring together business leaders and entrepreneurs from the four nations to facilitate partnerships, investments and commercial collaboration. Rubio said Quad cooperation should move beyond diplomatic discussions and translate into practical initiatives, including greater engagement among businesses and non-governmental organisations.
He identified humanitarian assistance and disaster response as key areas for deeper cooperation. The four countries are exploring ways to pool resources and provide faster assistance to nations affected by natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes and landslides.
Maritime security is another priority, with discussions focusing on improving coordination in monitoring activities both on and below the sea surface. Rubio emphasised the importance of information sharing and developing a common understanding of threats to freedom of navigation.
He said the challenge was to turn discussions at Quad meetings into concrete action plans. Cooperation among the four countries had gained momentum, with further progress expected in the coming months.
