Quad FMs, Including S Jaishankar, To Have Meeting After Donald Trump's Inauguration

The foreign ministers of the Quad countries, Japan, Australia, and the United States- will reportedly have a meeting in Washington shortly after attending Donald Trump's inauguration for his second presidential term. This gathering signals a strategic emphasis on reinforcing the Quad's commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

High-Level Representation at Trump's Inauguration

Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi confirmed his attendance on a program aired by NHK, highlighting Japan's commitment to diplomatic engagement. Similarly, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced his participation through an invitation from the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee.

In Canberra, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that her attendance as a testament to the strong alliance between Australia and the United States.

First Quad Ministerial of Trump's New Term

Japanese news agency Kyodo reported that the Quad foreign ministers are likely to hold their first ministerial meeting on January 21, the day after Trump's inauguration. This meeting is expected to include the newly appointed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, setting the tone for renewed regional collaboration.

Akihisa Nagashima, Japan's special adviser on national security, expressed optimism on social media, noting the potential for the meeting to alleviate concerns and reinforce shared goals.

Continuity in Countering China

The meeting underscores continuity in countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific, a priority initiated under President Joe Biden's administration. Despite differing approaches between Biden and Trump, the Quad's focus on fostering regional partnerships remains steadfast. This ministerial gathering serves as a demonstration of the Quad's collective resolve to address shared security and economic challenges.

A Symbolic Start to Trump's Second Term

The Quad ministerial meeting highlights the importance of multilateral cooperation, with all four countries poised to strengthen their strategic ties. As Trump's second term begins, this meeting sends a strong signal about the Quad's commitment to maintaining stability and promoting shared values in the Indo-Pacific region.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump will return to Washington on Saturday to kick off days of pageantry to herald his second inauguration as president. His inauguration has been moved indoors due to cold weather.

"I have ordered the Inauguration Address, in addition to prayers and other speeches, to be delivered in the United States Capitol Rotunda, as was used by Ronald Reagan in 1985, also because of very cold weather," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.