Australia’s FM Penny Wong at Quad Meet in Delhi: “Free and Open Indo-Pacific Must Protect Sovereignty and Choice”

At the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong underscored the importance of maintaining a free, open and sovereign Indo-Pacific region while highlighting the growing strategic alignment among Quad nations.

Addressing the gathering, Wong described India as “the world's largest democracy” and emphasized its growing influence in shaping both the Indo-Pacific and the wider global order. Referring to earlier discussions within the Quad framework, she stressed the importance of preserving the freedom of nations to make independent choices regarding their security and sovereign interests.

Wong said Australia’s approach to the Quad is deeply rooted in ensuring countries across the Indo-Pacific retain the ability to determine their own future without coercion or external pressure.

Highlighting the collaborative strength of the Quad partnership, she noted that while the four member nations maintain distinct histories and national interests, they remain strongly aligned in their broader regional vision.

She further stated that the Quad has already demonstrated practical cooperation through responses to natural disasters and initiatives involving critical infrastructure, undersea cable networks, maritime security and critical minerals.

Reaffirming Australia’s commitment to the grouping, Wong said member nations are determined to strengthen the Quad’s momentum and effectiveness, with a shared objective of building a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

The meeting comes amid growing geopolitical shifts and increasing strategic focus on regional security, connectivity and economic resilience across the Indo-Pacific.