Japan, Australia, India, US meet for consultations on the Indo-Pacific region

Singapore [Singapore], Nov 15 (ANI): Senior Officials from Japan, Australia, India and the United States, met in Singapore for consultations on the Indo-Pacific region on the sidelines of East-Asia Summit (EAS) on Thursday.
"The four countries reaffirmed a shared commitment to maintain and strengthen a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific in which all nations are sovereign, strong, and prosperous," read a statement released by Japan.
The countries also underscored the complementary visions for the region held by the four countries which are grounded in a shared support for a free, open, and inclusive region that fosters universal respect for international law, freedom of navigation and overflight, and sustainable development.
The four countries also focused on shared goals, including support for sustainable development, connectivity, and good governance.
Highlighting the importance of good governance in strengthening the rules-based order, the four countries reviewed initiatives to enhance regional security, including through cooperation on maritime, counterterrorism, non-proliferation, and cyber issues.
They committed to supporting broad economic development that harnesses the region's full potential and fosters the development of quality infrastructure based on international standards, such as openness, transparency, economic efficiency, and debt sustainability.
The four countries reaffirmed their strong support for ASEAN centrality and the ASEAN-led regional architecture, as well as their support for other regional institutions such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Pacific Islands Forum.
They highlighted the importance of coordination and collaboration with all interested countries and institutions to support a diverse, peaceful, and prosperous region.
The four countries also exchanged views on regional developments including in Sri Lanka and Maldives.
The four countries looked forward to regular consultations on Indo-Pacific engagement and initiatives. (ANI)