Biden Hosts Leaders of Australia, Japan, and India in Final Quad Summit in Wilmington

President Biden showcased a piece of his hometown, Wilmington, Delaware, to leaders from Australia, Japan, and India during what is expected to be the final summit of the Indo-Pacific partnership under his administration. The meeting, aimed at strengthening ties in the region, took place at Archmere Academy, Biden's former school.

Promotion of the Indo-Pacific Partnership

Biden's administration has focused on promoting the Indo-Pacific partnership, seeking to elevate the Quad to a leader-level collaboration. This summit marks the fourth in-person and sixth overall gathering of the leaders since 2021. The president expressed confidence in the partnership's longevity, stating, "It will survive way beyond November."

During the summit, Biden's nostalgic connection to his alma mater added a personal touch to the event. The relaxed atmosphere of the meetings at Biden's residence was intended to foster candid discussions among the leaders, allowing for a more informal exchange of ideas.

Multilateral Cooperation

The summit was not only focused on bilateral discussions but also on broader multilateral cooperation. One of the key outcomes was the announcement of new initiatives to enhance maritime security in the region and improve cooperation on humanitarian response missions. These measures are seen as a response to an increasingly assertive China.

The leaders also discussed pressing global issues, with a particular emphasis on China's actions in the Pacific and Russia's war against Ukraine. The gathering served as a platform for the leaders to address these challenges and reaffirm their commitment to addressing shared concerns.

Laying the Groundwork for the Future

The summit was not only an opportunity for the leaders to assess the current state of affairs but also to lay the groundwork for future cooperation. The formation of a "Quad Caucus" in Congress was celebrated, ensuring the longevity of the partnership regardless of the outcome of the upcoming election. Additionally, the leaders announced new collaborations aimed at reducing cervical cancer in the Indo-Pacific, linking it to Biden's Cancer Moonshot Initiative.

As President Biden's tenure approaches its conclusion, the Wilmington summit demonstrated his ongoing commitment to advancing international cooperation and strengthening the Indo-Pacific partnership. The partnerships forged and initiatives announced during the summit are likely to have enduring implications for regional security and cooperation in the coming years.