In Japan, PM Modi pitches Quad’s practical role in maritime security, disaster relief

Highlighting the Quad’s role as a provider of “practical solutions” in the Indo-Pacific, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the bloc’s contributions to maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) alongside broader cooperation in technology, health, and connectivity.

Speaking to Japan’s Yomiuri Shimbun during his visit to Tokyo for the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit, Modi said the grouping has grown into a “force for global good” over the past two decades.

“Quad’s practical agenda ranges from maritime safety and security, Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, cyber security, critical and emerging technologies and connectivity to education, health and even space cooperation,” he said.

The Prime Minister underlined that Quad members India, Japan, the US and Australia are uniquely positioned to deliver tangible benefits to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in times of crisis.

“The role of the Quad in the delivery of public goods can also be very significant,” Modi said, adding that Japan’s contribution has been central to strengthening the grouping’s agenda.

Broader India-Japan partnership

While placing emphasis on the Quad, PM Modi also projected India-Japan ties as a pillar of regional stability. He pointed to growing cooperation in semiconductors, defence and space exploration including the LUPEX lunar mission as evidence of the relationship’s long-term strategic depth.

“India and Japan are ancient civilizations, vibrant democracies and leading economies. Our partnership today spans innovation, security, resilience and prosperity,” he said, describing the annual summit with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba as a moment to chart the “next phase” of bilateral ties.

Indo-Pacific convergence

PM Modi stressed that India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative and Japan’s vision for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific are closely aligned, reinforcing their joint commitment to maritime stability.

The two countries, he added, remain united in supporting territorial integrity, sovereignty, and peace across the region.

As leaders prepare for the Quad summit later this year, Modi said he expected further progress in sharpening the grouping’s agenda.

“Together, we can continue to deliver practical solutions and tangible outcomes that benefit not only our region but the wider world,” he said.