The Quad, short for the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, is an informal strategic forum that brings together four major Indo-Pacific democracies: the United States, Japan, India, and Australia. The Quad was initially established in 2007 but became more active in recent years as concerns over China's increasing assertiveness in the region grew.
China's response to the Quad has been complex, and it's important to note that the term "paranoid" might not be the most accurate characterization of China's perspective. From China's point of view, the Quad is perceived as a strategic alignment of countries that could potentially challenge China's regional influence and actions.
Here are some reasons why China has expressed concerns or reservations about the Quad:
Containment Concerns: China has voiced apprehensions that the Quad might evolve into a military alliance aimed at containing China's rise as a global power.
Regional Influence: The Quad countries, along with other allies and partners, have expressed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, which includes concerns about China's actions in the South China Sea and its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, which some countries view as debt-trap diplomacy.
Territorial Disputes: China has territorial disputes with some Quad members, such as India and Japan. China perceives any efforts to strengthen partnerships with these countries as potentially undermining its territorial claims.
Nationalism and Sovereignty: China's leadership often emphasizes nationalism and sovereignty, viewing any perceived encroachment on its sovereignty or internal affairs as a challenge.
Historical Tensions: Historical issues, such as Japan-China relations and the legacy of World War II, can influence China's perceptions of its neighbors' actions and alliances.
It is essential to recognize that different governments and political entities have their perspectives and interests. While China may have concerns about the Quad, the Quad countries assert that their cooperation aims to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, rather than targeting or containing any specific country.
Geostrategic dynamics can be complex, and each country's perceptions and actions are influenced by various historical, political, and economic factors. Diplomacy, open communication, and understanding each other's concerns can contribute to reducing tensions and fostering cooperation in the region.