I2U2

Why in news?

• The I2U2 group is emerging as a new coalition in West Asia.  Its footprints are embedded in the Abraham Accords that take a cue from the landmark Israel and UAE accord, which later on were pursued by many other Arab countries

About I2U2 or ‘West Asian Quad’:

• I2U2 is the new grouping formed by four nations- India, Israel, UAE, and the US.
• It was given the name International Forum for Economic Cooperation.
  • In the grouping’s name, ‘I2’ stands for India and Israel, whereas ‘U2’ stands for USA and the UAE.
• It is focused on expanding economic and political cooperation in the Middle East and Asia, including through trade, combating climate change, energy cooperation, and coordination on other vital shared interests.
• The four-nation framework would foster support and cooperation in various domains like infrastructure, technology and maritime security.
• It is often referred as the ‘West Asian Quad’.

Background:

• In 2020, Israel, UAE and Bahrain signed Abraham Accords brokered by the United States which has subsequently led to normalising of relations between Israel and a number of Arab Gulf countries.
• I2U2 was initially formed in October, 2021 following the Abraham Accords, to deal with issues concerning maritime security, infrastructure and transport.
• The aim was to harness the unique array of capabilities, knowledge and experience of all four nations which ultimately lead to the formation of I2U2.
• The first I2U2 Leaders’ Virtual Summit was held in July 2022.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Which of the following countries are members of I2U2 grouping?

1. United States

2. United Kingdom

3. India

4. Israel

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1,3 and 4 only

(b) 1 and 4 only

(c) 1,2 and 4 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Answer