Quad

Trump’s regional policy is likely to focus on U.S. military engagement to counter China. The Philippines thus may become a linchpin in U.S. engagement in the Indo-Pacific.

The challenge is to make a compelling case for Trump to support and endorse these partnerships.

The first Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting under the new U.S. administration suggested changes on at least three counts.

The new Coast Guard cooperation among the U.S., Australia, India, and Japan is a crucial step in building a resilient and unified front in the Indo-Pacific. 

Indian policymakers have aimed to take advantage of the significant strategic and economic opportunities arising from the rivalries and competition between the U.S. and China, as well as the U.S. and Russia.

The TSD has fewer points of friction that could hinder practical collaboration due to the high strategic complementarity of Australia, Japan, and the U.S.

Friendshoring supply chains for legacy chips to countries like India is likely the most feasible long-term solution for the West in the face of China’s dominance.

SEATO’s history remains significant even 70 years after its formation and nearly 50 years since its demise.

To “China-proof” their critical minerals supply chains, Quad nations must improve intra-Quad partnerships, while solidifying trade with other countries.

The Philippines is not replacing India in the Quad, but India’s hesitancy on the security agenda in the region in hopes of not triggering China dilutes the Quad’s focus.

The pace of growth in the Australia-India strategic relationship is quite impressive, but New Delhi’s hesitance on hard security issues may hamper further developments. 

To counter China’s advances, it is important to avoid creating a power vacuum.