The QUAD Group is concerned about the situation in the South China Sea

The United States, India, Japan and Australia have expressed concern about China's activities. At a meeting of the Quad Group at the home of US President Biden, members emphasized the stability of their alliance.

The countries of the Quad, comprising the US, India, Japan and Australia, expressed concern over the situation in the East and South China Seas after the meeting. “We are seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas,” it said in a statement issued after Saturday's meeting.

Biden invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to his hometown of Wilmington, Delaware.

Looking cautiously towards Taiwan

A White House statement said Biden, Kishida and Albanese were concerned about China's “coercive measures and disruptive actions.” “Peace and stability” must be ensured, especially in the Taiwan Strait. China sees Taiwan as a breakaway province that needs to be reunited with the mainland — with military force if necessary. Taiwan's military recently reported that Chinese warplanes, drones and naval vessels are seen near the island on an almost daily basis.

As the host of the meeting, Biden had previously emphasized the stability of the coalition despite regime change in the United States. “There will be challenges, there will be a group of four,” he said. The Quad, referring to the Nov. 5 U.S. presidential election that will last “beyond November,” could pursue a less outspoken foreign policy if former President Donald Trump wins.

The Quad consists of USA, India, Japan and Australia since 2007. Biden restored the alliance after his predecessor Trump's isolationist foreign policy. It is intended to provide a counterweight to China's claims to military and economic power.

Meeting in Biden's homeland

Along with the gathering location, Biden underscored the “deep personal connections” he has with his guests, said his spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre. Negotiations took place at his home and at his former school in Wilmington, which Jean-Pierre had originally insisted on. “I'm so glad you were at my house and saw where I grew up,” Biden said.

“News: Quad will stay,” Modi said. The group does not pursue “anyone against” politics, but instead insists on a “rules-based international order.” India has traditionally been non-aligned. As part of the Quad, New Delhi, like other members, had expressed concern over China's activities in the South China Sea. India will host the next Quad Summit next year.