Rule of law must be restored in Myanmar: QUAD

India has raised issues of ongoing developments in Myanmar and reiterated that the rule of law and democracy must be restored in the country, during the virtual third QUAD ministerial-level meeting with Japan, Australia and the United States. 

In Myanmar, the military leadership has arrested scores of political leaders and declared a state of emergency for one year, alleging that November's election was beset by fraud.

While discussing their views of regional issues during the meeting, the QUAD nation ministers advanced their vision of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, with clear support for ASEAN cohesion and centrality. 

"It was noted that the Indo-Pacific concept had gathered growing international support, including in Europe," an official statement said.

The QUAD ministers also emphasized their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas and peaceful resolution of disputes. 

On Covid-19 pandemic, they expressed their commitment to cooperate in addressing this challenge, enhancing access to affordable vaccines, medicines and medical equipment. 

The ministers recognised and appreciated India's efforts at providing vaccines to 74 countries.

Besides, they also exchanged views on responding to climate change and furthering cooperation in areas such as maritime security, HADR, supply chain resilience and counter-terrorism.

Noting that regular Quad consultations hold value, the ministers agreed to continue these useful discussions.

In the meeting, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar from India, Marise Payne from Australia, Toshimitsu Motegi from Japan and Antony Blinken from the US participated. 

Last year in October, the meeting was held in Tokyo, where the ministers of the four countries met in person to discuss global and regional issues.

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• ASEAN cohesion
• Australia
• Indo-Pacific
• Japan
• QUAD
• QUAD meeting
• QUAD ministerial-level meeting
• United States