Credited from: INDIATIMES
In a significant diplomatic move, the Japanese government is arranging a meeting of the Quad foreign ministers next week, coinciding with the swearing-in ceremony of US President-elect Donald Trump, as reported by NHK World. This meeting aims to strengthen the partnership among Japan, the United States, Australia, and India, which is critical for promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Japan's Foreign Minister, Iwaya Takeshi, is expected to attend the ceremony scheduled for January 20, and the arrangements suggest a desire to affirm the importance of maintaining strong relations among the four nations. "The Quad framework facilitates crucial discussions on cooperation," Iwaya remarked during a recent debate program.
Importantly, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the inauguration, indicating significant engagement with the incoming US administration. He is expected to conduct meetings with various dignitaries and fellow ministers during his visit. With Trump having appointed Marco Rubio, a prominent figure in US-India relations, as Secretary of State, there is optimism regarding future collaborations within the Quad.
Sources indicate that Japanese officials have prioritized this meeting to not only engage with the new administration but also reinforce commitments made during previous Quad meetings, particularly during the recent Leaders' Summit hosted by President Biden. This meeting represents a potential milestone in diplomatic relations during Trump's presidency, marking the first significant multilateral engagement since his re-election.
For further details, visit the original sources at [Times of India](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/japanese-government-arranging-quad-foreign-ministers-meeting-on-sidelines-of-trumps-swearing-in-ceremony/articleshow/117199205.cms) and [Times of India](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/quad-meet-in-us-likely-after-trump-swearing-in/articleshow/117217883.cms).