Quad to Strengthen Cooperation in AI and Critical Minerals
The four countries announced plans to expand access to trusted AI across the Indo-Pacific, while Washington pledged USD 10 million to support critical mineral recycling in India and ASEAN nations.
WASHINGTON, Oct 31: The Quad countries have agreed to deepen collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), critical minerals and emerging technologies, with a focus on strengthening economic resilience and expanding regional cooperation across the Indo-Pacific.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting of foreign ministers from the four-nation grouping on Saturday, where the United States also announced USD 10 million in funding to support critical mineral recycling initiatives in India and ASEAN countries.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held discussions with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Atlanta.
The ministers announced the establishment of the first ever Quad Business Leaders’ Forum to strengthen engagement between governments and private enterprises. The platform will encourage commercial partnerships and promote business opportunities in strategically important sectors.
As part of efforts to enhance economic collaboration, export credit agencies from the four countries will convene in Tokyo on November 18 to explore practical areas of cooperation and identify opportunities for joint initiatives.
Artificial intelligence also featured prominently in the discussions, with the ministers recognising its growing importance in driving economic development and technological advancement.
According to a joint statement issued after the meeting, the Quad members expressed their intention to provide more than USD 85 million in technical and financial assistance to improve access to trusted AI technologies across the Indo-Pacific. The support will include initiatives under the Quad AI Accelerator.
The ministers also highlighted the significance of initiatives such as Pax Silica in promoting technological innovation and strengthening cooperation in emerging industries.
Saturday’s meeting marked the third gathering of Quad foreign ministers this year. The earlier meetings were held in New Delhi in May and Manila in July.
Meanwhile, preparations are underway for a Quad Leaders’ Summit, which US President Donald Trump is expected to host on the sidelines of the ASEAN and East Asia Summits in mid-November.
Emphasising the importance of collective efforts, Rubio said the four countries were working towards building dependable and transparent supply chains, advancing next-generation technologies, expanding maritime cooperation and securing critical mineral resources.
He said these initiatives demonstrated the commitment of the United States, Australia, India and Japan to delivering tangible benefits for their citizens and countries across the region.
