Defense News ,India US Japan Austraila :- The US House of Representatives has overwhelmingly passed the Quad bill, pushing the Biden administration to create a Quad Intra-Parliamentary Working Group for closer cooperation among the US, Australia, India, and Japan. The Quad is a partnership between these four nations, committed to maintaining a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to China's assertive actions in the South China Sea.
With a vote of 379 to 39, the 'Strengthen US-Australia-India-Japan Cooperation' bill emphasizes the need to enhance collaboration between these countries. The bill instructs the State Department to present a strategy to Congress within 180 days for increased engagement with the Quad. Additionally, negotiations are to begin within 60 days to establish a Quad Intra-Parliamentary Working Group with Japan, Australia, and India.
The bill also proposes a US group with a maximum of 24 members of Congress to represent the country in the working group. It outlines guidelines for annual meetings and group leadership, requiring the group to submit an annual report to the congressional foreign affairs committees.
The legislation, introduced by Congressman Gregory Meeks, mandates the State Department to report a strategy for boosting engagement and cooperation with the Quad to Congress. The strategy aims to address key issues, including preparing for future pandemics, co-developing innovative technologies, and deepening economic engagement.
Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, highlights the importance of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific, aligning with US interests in the region. China's claims in the South China Sea, disputed by neighboring countries, have prompted this alliance.
Congresswoman Ilhan Omar from Minneapolis, one of two Democratic lawmakers who voted against the bill, reflects the diverse opinions on this legislation.
Meeks expressed pride in advancing the "Strengthening the Quad Act," emphasizing the Quad's role in promoting democracy, open societies, and international rules. The legislation strives to ensure the Quad's longevity and success by fostering greater cooperation and engagement among the four legislatures. Meeks concludes by emphasizing the need for democracies to collaborate in the face of rising authoritarianism globally.
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