Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Fijian and South Sudanese counterparts to discuss defense cooperation and institutionalize collaborative efforts. Key outcomes include agreements on maritime security and UN peacekeeping training exchanges. These discussions were part of the Aero India 2025 exhibition, highlighting India’s commitment to international defense relations.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently held bilateral discussions with counterparts from Fiji and South Sudan during his visit to Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru. He welcomed the Fijian Defence Minister, solidifying ongoing defence cooperation with an emphasis on strengthening maritime security and institutionalizing the India-Fiji Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation, as outlined in their 2017 MoU.
In the meeting with South Sudan’s Defence Minister, Singh acknowledged the critical role of Indian forces in the United Nations Mission in the country. Both parties agreed to expedite efforts in drafting a Memorandum of Understanding to streamline defence collaboration, alongside commitments to enhance training and industry partnerships.
Singh shared updates on his meetings via social media, expressing optimism about the enhanced defence collaboration with both nations. He emphasized the importance of such dialogues in the context of India’s strategic engagement with the Pacific Islands and broader global partnerships.
Aero India 2025, marking its 15th edition at Yelahanka Air Force Station, showcases India’s advancements in aerospace and defence, aligning with the government’s vision of a secure and self-reliant nation. Singh’s initiatives during this event signal a commitment to building stronger international defence ties.
These discussions indicate India’s strategic intent to fortify alliances with Pacific and African nations, boosting mutual defense frameworks and peacekeeping operations, particularly through significant training exchanges. The international cooperation reflects India’s evolving role as a proactive contributor to global security.
Rajnath Singh’s meetings highlight India’s strategic emphasis on expanding its defence relationships, particularly with nations like Fiji and South Sudan. The collaboration with Fiji includes strengthening maritime safety and security through institutional mechanisms like the Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation. In South Sudan, India’s involvement in UN peacekeeping underscores its commitment to global stability. The Aero India event serves as a platform for enhancing international ties through showcasing defence capabilities.
Rajnath Singh’s meetings with the Defence Ministers of Fiji and South Sudan underscore India’s expanding global defence partnerships. Key initiatives include formalizing collaborations in defence training and Maritime Domain Awareness, reflecting strategic interests in regional security. The Aero India exhibition serves as a pivotal platform for fostering these international relations, promoting India’s vision for a capable and self-reliant defense infrastructure.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
