Ahead of Aero India 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conducted meetings with Fiji’s Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua and South Sudan’s Lt Gen Chol Thon J Balok. Both meetings focused on enhancing defence cooperation, institutionalizing joint working groups, and expanding training and industrial partnerships. The significance of these discussions highlights India’s commitment to strengthening security ties with Pacific Island nations and African countries.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral meetings with the Defence Ministers of Fiji and South Sudan in Bengaluru ahead of Aero India 2025. On Sunday, Singh welcomed Fiji’s Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua, marking his first visit to India. Both nations expressed satisfaction with their ongoing defence cooperation and agreed to enhance and expand their partnership, as noted in an official statement from the Ministry of Defence.
The discussions led to an agreement to institutionalize the India-Fiji Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation, which was outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2017. The focus of the collaboration includes bolstering Maritime Domain Awareness, enhancing naval training capacities, and ensuring maritime security, particularly in the Exclusive Economic Zone, while also adapting training for UN peacekeepers and defence civilians.
During his meeting with Lt Gen Chol Thon J Balok, the Defence Minister of South Sudan, Singh expressed gratitude for South Sudan’s participation in Aero India 2025. The officials agreed to expedite a Memorandum of Understanding to better facilitate defence cooperation between both countries, recognizing India’s contributions to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. They also discussed expanding engagement through training exchanges and industrial partnerships.
Singh provided insights into his meetings via social media, emphasizing the constructive discussions with both Ministers. He stated, “Had an appreciative meeting with the Defence Minister of Fiji, Mr. Pio Tikoduadua in Bengaluru. Discussed ways and means to further deepen defence cooperation.” He also shared, “Met with the Defence Minister of South Sudan Lt Gen Chol Thon J. Balok on the sidelines of Aero India 2025. We reviewed the ongoing defence cooperation including the UN peacekeeping cooperation.”
The Asia’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition, Aero India, commenced at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, reinforcing the Indian government’s vision of a robust and self-reliant defence industry. In his remarks, Defence Minister Singh highlighted the event’s significance in fostering a capable and secure India.
The bilateral meetings occurred in the context of Aero India 2025, an annual aerospace and defence exhibition that showcases advancements and innovations in the industry. India aims to strengthen defence ties with countries that are significant partners, such as Fiji and South Sudan, as part of its foreign policy to enhance global security networks and promote stability within regions of interest, particularly in maritime contexts and peacekeeping initiatives. The agreements struck during these meetings signify India’s commitment to expanding its strategic partnerships through collaborative defence initiatives, training programs, and industrial cooperation.
The meetings between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Fijian and South Sudanese counterparts reflect India’s commitment to enhancing defence cooperation on multiple fronts. By institutionalizing joint working groups and pursuing memorandums of understanding, India is working to bolster its defence capabilities and partnerships internationally. These discussions not only pave the way for deeper collaboration in training and peacekeeping efforts but also underscore India’s strategic engagement with important global partners.
Original Source: thenewsmill.com
