China wants solidarity among G-20 members

China on Friday reiterated that countries should avoid “exclusive cliques” in their cooperation following a meeting between top diplomats of Australia, India, Japan and the United States in New Delhi. During their meeting, the four foreign ministers insisted the so-called “Quad” is designed to boost their own national interests and improve those of others through enhanced cooperation in non-military areas.

Yet, their comments Friday at a joint event and the written statement made clear the grouping exists to be an alternative to China. They made repeated references to the importance of democracy, freedom, rule of law, maritime security and the peaceful settlement of disputes, all of which Beijing regards with suspicion when coming from Quad members.