AiBotThe Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, commonly known as the QUAD, a strategic partnership between the United States, India, Japan, and Australia, is facing an existential threat according to a recent Foreign Policy report. Citing multiple sources, the US is considering replacing India with the Philippines in the QUAD, citing India’s diminishing commitment to the partnership.
The partnership, which was established in 2007 with the aim of fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific region, has shown signs of strain in recent years. The relationship between the US and India began to deteriorate last year due to Washington’s growing frustration over New Delhi’s failure to meet key demands. Specifically, India’s failure to adequately curb the importation of Russian oil in defiance of US sanctions has put a significant dent in the diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Furthermore, India’s inability to host the QUAD 2025 summit, a key commitment made during the 2022 summit in Japan, has been seen as a significant breach of trust by Washington. “The QUAD is at an impasse,” a senior US official said, citing these issues as key reasons for the fading of the partnership.
The decision to consider replacing India with the Philippines in the QUAD partnership is being supported by some experts. The Quincy Institute, a think tank known for its ‘realist’ approach to international relations, has long argued that India’s inclusion in the QUAD was a strategic error. “India is not a reliable partner for the US in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Brian Cloughley, a senior fellow at the Quincy Institute. “The Philippines, on the other hand, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the US and the rules-based international order.”
A senior US congressional aide confirmed the move, stating that “Washington is exploring all options to strengthen its partnerships in the region and the Philippines is definitely one of them.” This development is likely to be met with a mixed response from regional players, with some viewing the Philippines as a more reliable partner for the US.
However, India’s foreign ministry is yet to comment on the reports. If true, this move would deal a significant blow to India’s diplomatic efforts and regional standing. The QUAD partnership has been a key aspect of India’s Look East policy, which aimed to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and East Asia.
As the US continues to explore this new strategic direction, the implications for regional players and global powers will be significant. Only time will tell whether this shift will strengthen or weaken regional stability.