The Quad grouping of the U.S., Australia, India and Japan met recently for the first time in almost a decade. Bringing the four together in common cause is underpinned by sound strategic logic. In addition to cooperating on issues like defense exercises and infrastructure, closer collaboration among the four helps ensure that China rises in a region where the democratic powers are strong and working together. Efforts like quadrilateral cooperation, backed by increasing commitments of allied and partner defense, diplomatic and economic resources, represents insurance against instability and coercion in Asia. In the discussions about how best to marshal those commitments, Australia deserves a seat at the table.

Article reposted with permission from Richard Fontaine, view the original post on Financial Review here.