Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s meetings with Fiji and South Sudan defense ministers aimed to strengthen bilateral defense ties. Discussions included establishing the India-Fiji Joint Working Group and enhancing training exchanges with South Sudan. The engagements reflect India’s growing diplomatic focus in the Pacific and African regions, promoting maritime and collaborative defense efforts. The Aero India exhibition highlights India’s defense advancements as part of this strategy.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with his counterparts from Fiji and South Sudan to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. He welcomed Fijian Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua during his inaugural visit to India. Both parties were pleased with ongoing defence relations and confirmed plans to establish the India-Fiji Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation, highlighting an intention to enhance maritime security and training for defence personnel.
During his meeting with South Sudan’s Defence Minister Lt Gen Chol Thon J. Balok, Singh expressed gratitude for South Sudan’s participation in the upcoming Aero India 2025 event. Discussions focused on accelerating a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster defence ties, with an emphasis on training exchanges and industry partnerships. South Sudan acknowledged India’s contributions to UN peacekeeping missions in the country.
Singh showcased his discussions with both ministers on social media platforms. He highlighted the institutionalization of the India-Fiji Joint Working Group to deepen defence cooperation. The ongoing defence collaboration with South Sudan was also reviewed during these engagements. The meetings reflect India’s active diplomatic efforts in the Pacific and African regions as part of its broader defence strategy.
The Aero India 2025 exhibition, held at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, emphasizes India’s commitment to a robust and self-reliant defense posture. Singh described the event as crucial for realizing the government’s vision for national security. The exhibition aims to foster international cooperation and showcase India’s advancements in aerospace and defence technology, making it a pivotal event in the regional defense calendar.
The engagement of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with Fiji and South Sudan represents India’s strategic initiative to enhance bilateral relationships in defense. Fiji is a vital member of the Pacific Island Countries, while South Sudan is significant for India’s ongoing participation in UN peacekeeping missions. These meetings signify India’s intent to deepen defense ties and collaborate on maritime security, training cooperation, and UN peacekeeping efforts across different regions, demonstrating India’s growing influence on the global stage.
In summary, the bilateral meetings held by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with Fijian and South Sudanese counterparts signify India’s commitment to expanding its defense cooperation and partnerships. This includes establishing a structured framework for collaboration with Fiji and enhancing training and operational alliances with South Sudan, reflecting India’s strategic priorities in international defense relations.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
