Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Tokyo, Japan, July 29, 2024. Photo: Kyodo/VNA

The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ press release says the four ministers emphasized the importance of adherence to international law for the rules-based maritime order, including in the East and South China Seas, and reaffirmed their strong opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.

They reaffirmed their unwavering support for ASEAN unity and centrality and for the implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). They also reaffirmed their support for Pacific island countries in line with the objectives of the “2050 Strategy” of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).

The four ministers affirmed their commitment and further promotion of concrete efforts including the areas of maritime security, according to the statement.