The US House of Representatives passed the Quad bill, directing the Biden administration to create a Quad Intra-Parliamentary Working Group. This group aims to foster enhanced collaboration among the United States, Australia, India, and Japan.

The quad bill was approved by a roll call vote of 379 to 39 votes to strengthen US-Australia-India-Japan Cooperation. The bill emphasizes the need to enhance cooperation among the United States, Australia, India, and Japan.

The bill directs the State Department to present to Congress, within 180 days of its enactment, a strategy aimed at enhancing engagement and cooperation with the Quad. Additionally, within 60 days of enactment, the State Department is mandated to commence negotiations with Japan, Australia, and India to establish a Quad Intra-Parliamentary Working Group to facilitate tighter collaboration among the member countries.

The bill further proposes the establishment of a US delegation comprising up to 24 members of Congress to participate in the working group alongside representatives from Japan, Australia, and India. It outlines protocols for conducting annual meetings and selecting group leaders. According to the bill, this delegation would be obligated to submit an annual report to the congressional foreign affairs committees.

Two Democratic lawmakers, including Congresswoman Ilhan Omar from Minneapolis, voted against the bill. The bill, introduced by Congressman Gregory Meeks, mandates the State Department to present to Congress a strategy aimed at enhancing engagement and cooperation with the Quad.

This strategy is expected to cover various areas, including preparing for future pandemics, collaborating on the development of innovative technologies, and enhancing economic engagement and integration.

Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Meeks, emphasized that the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue involving the United States, Japan, Australia, and India has played a vital role in fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific while also furthering US interests in the region.

Congressman Meeks stated, "I am proud to have advanced my legislation, the Strengthening the Quad Act, through the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support," Meeks emphasized the significance of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific, advancing US interests, and enhancing national security.

Meeks further elaborated, "My legislation aims to ensure the Quad's success and longevity." He highlighted that the bill calls upon the State Department to develop a strategy focused on strengthening democratic coordination in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, it establishes a Quad Intra-Parliamentary Working Group to facilitate increased engagement and cooperation among the four legislatures.

Meeks emphasized, "With the rise of authoritarianism around the world, it is vital that our democracies collaborate to demonstrate the success of open societies and markets, advocate for democratic governance and international rules, and deliver tangible outcomes."

Image source: NDTV