Quad flags economic coercion, announces $85 million to expand AI access

The Quad, comprising Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, has expressed deep concerns over China's economic coercion and arbitrary export restrictions in the Indo-Pacific region. During a meeting in Atlanta, the Quad foreign ministers announced a $85 million investment to expand access to "trusted Super Intelligence SI" to bolster the region's technological capabilities.

The ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to addressing critical mineral supply chain issues and reducing reliance on a single supplier. They emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and driving prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, while ensuring the unhindered flow of commerce and energy security. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo highlighted the need for deeper cooperation on counter-terrorism, maritime security, and capacity building to enhance regional resilience and promote peace and stability.

In the aftermath of the Quad meeting, speculation arose that the Trump administration has downgraded the group by preventing India from hosting the Quad Leaders' Summit, which was initially planned for Manila. However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism that the summit will eventually take place, possibly on the margins of ASEAN meetings.

The Quad ministers also announced the inaugural Quad Business Leaders' Forum, aimed at fostering stronger ties between industry leaders, government officials, and policy experts from the Quad countries. The forum will focus on promoting commercial deals in key sectors, including advanced semiconductors and AI hardware.