The Quadrilateral group or the Quad is an informal group which includes the trade spokespersons of Canada, the European Union, Japan, and the United States. It was first suggested at a private meeting during the 7th G7 summit in July 1981. Initially, a trilateral group was proposed (excluding Canada) because of the tensions between the two North American countries at that time but eventually, the Canadian Government successfully lobbied to be included.[1] The European Commission has avoided formalizing the group because of resistance from the European Union members, particularly France, who resent their lack of direct involvement.[1]
