Quad Leaders Set to Meet in Manila on November 17

UPDATE - follow-up to Quad Summit likely to be held in Manila on November 17, sources say: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet U.S. President Donald Trump, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Manila on November 17. Sources in New Delhi confirmed the schedule, noting the meeting will happen on the sidelines of ASEAN summits after Mr. Trump lands.

Agenda And Security Concerns

Talks will focus on supply chains for critical minerals and securing trade routes for energy supplies. Officials pointed out that attacks on commercial ships are very likely to be discussed. This safety issue matters greatly to India because at least 30 Indian seafarers have died in attacks on ships in the Hormuz Strait, the Sea of Oman, and the Black Sea during conflicts in Iran and Ukraine.

Historical Context

This gathering marks the first Quad Summit held in a country that is not part of the four-member group. India serves as the Chair of the grouping, which revived its ties in 2017 and upgraded to leader-level meetings. New Delhi has not yet been able to host the summit due to the U.S. President's schedule, though officials say it might still happen in Delhi next year. U.S. midterm election losses for the Republican Party also delayed confirming the travel plans.

Context

The Quad brings together four major Indo-Pacific democracies to keep regional trade routes open and secure. Because shipping lanes carry vital energy and goods, safety threats directly impact global trade stability.