India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar convened with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday in Tokyo, preceding the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting. Jaishankar mentioned that their conversation encompassed a broad spectrum of regional and global concerns. On X, Jaishankar posted: "Great to catch up with @SecBlinken in Tokyo today. Our bilateral agenda progresses steadily. Also had a wide-ranging discussion on regional and global issues. Look forward to attending the Quad FMM tomorrow". Earlier on the same day, EAM S Jaishankar unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Freedom Plaza in Edogawa, Tokyo, alongside the Quad Foreign Ministers meeting. The ceremony was attended by Edogawa Mayor Takeshi Saito, India's Ambassador to Japan Sibi George, and other ministers, with a group of schoolchildren performing Gandhi's favorite prayer, "Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram". Jaishankar noted that this act signifies Japan's intent to strengthen its bonds with India. "We are here today because the Edogawa ward and Mayor Takeshi Saito have chosen to forge a relationship with India by placing this magnificent statue of our nation's father, Mahatma Gandhi, at this location and park, which they will name after him." Jaishankar emphasized that Mahatma Gandhi is a universal symbol, as his teachings through his life remain timeless. "We must reflect today, why it is crucial to have this statue here... Gandhi's accomplishments have transcended his era. Over time, they have become even more significant. What he imparted to us remains as relevant now as it was then". The Quad is a diplomatic alliance between Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, dedicated to fostering an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient, according to Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.