Quad grouping

• The grouping of four democracies – India, Australia, US and Japan – known as the quadrilateral security dialogue or quad, was first mooted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2007. Quad was revived in 2017. 
• The QUAD partners share a commitment towards a free, open, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific region based on shared values and principles and respect for international law.
• There is a focus on practical cooperation in the areas of connectivity and infrastructure development, and counter-terrorism, cyber security, maritime security, humanitarian and disaster relief, with the objective of promoting peace, security, stability and prosperity in an increasingly inter-connected Indo-Pacific region.
• With growing concerns in all four quad countries about Chinese foreign policy and regional influence, the group has found renewed relevance. 

Why in News?

• The U.S. has reiterated that the Quad is not a security or military partnership. Its purpose is to advance cooperation on key priorities in specific sectors that is consistent with international law.
• Quad countries strive for a region that is free, open, inclusive, healthy, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion.

Reference:

1. https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/the-quad-is-not-a-security-alliance-us-state-department/article38403799.ece