Biden hosts Quad summit in Wilmington this weekend

President Biden is hosting a significant summit at his Wilmington home, welcoming leaders from Australia, India, and Japan. This gathering marks the fourth and final 'Quad summit' aimed at strengthening alliances among the United States and Indo-Pacific nations, particularly in response to China's growing influence in the region. The summit will feature discussions on various topics, including a maritime agreement and a joint Coast Guard mission, although no specific policies targeting China will be introduced. Biden's approach emphasizes personal relationships in politics, as he believes that strong connections can lead to effective alliances. This weekend's summit is particularly meaningful, given the limited time left in his presidency. The informal atmosphere is highlighted by Biden's interactions with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, where they engaged in candid discussions reminiscent of friendly visits. The summit will also focus on expanding Biden's 'cancer moonshot' initiative and the Quad Fellowship, which aims to foster collaboration among future scientists and technologists. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan indicated that while there will be no direct policies aimed at China, discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address perceptions of China's actions and future trajectory in the region. Overall, this summit represents a crucial moment for Biden to solidify international partnerships and address shared concerns, particularly regarding regional stability and cooperation among the Quad nations. The personal touch of hosting foreign leaders at his home underscores the importance of building trust and understanding in international relations.