Rajnath Singh strengthens defence partnerships at ADMM-Plus Summit in Laos

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday engaged in a series of high-level discussions with counterparts from the United States, Japan, and the Philippines during the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) held in Vientiane, Laos.

Singh met with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin to review progress in the India-US defence partnership. Their discussions focused on key areas such as defence operations, information sharing, and industrial innovation. Both leaders highlighted the significant advancements under the US-India Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, including joint efforts in co-producing jet engines, munitions, and ground mobility systems.

The defence minister also recalled his August 2024 visit to the US, during which critical agreements like the Security of Supplies Agreement (SOSA) and the deployment of Liaison Officers were finalized. Secretary Austin praised Singh’s leadership, noting that initiatives such as the MALABAR exercises and INDUS-X technology collaborations are bolstering interoperability and innovation between the two nations.

Singh referred to the recently concluded QUAD Summit, highlighting new initiatives such as the Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI) and a Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network pilot project. Both leaders expressed support for enhancing defence innovation through the India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem, which fosters collaboration among governments, businesses, and academic institutions.

In a separate meeting with Japanese Defence Minister General Nakatani, Singh reaffirmed the importance of the India-Japan partnership in promoting a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. He emphasised the alignment between India’s Act East Policy and Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision. Singh’s sentiments echoed recent remarks by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who described the India-Japan relationship as one of “great trust and growing substance.”

The defence minister also met Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, highlighting the Philippines’ role in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision. The discussions occurred shortly after both nations celebrated 75 years of diplomatic ties, with Singh reiterating India’s commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with the Philippines.

During the ADMM-Plus summit, Singh emphasised India’s commitment to resolving global issues through constructive dialogue and engagement. He reiterated India’s stance on freedom of navigation, lawful commerce, and adherence to international law in the Indo-Pacific. Singh also participated in an Indian community event, where he reflected on India’s developmental achievements and the government’s vision to make India a fully developed nation by 2047.

The summit and accompanying bilateral meetings reflect India’s expanding role in shaping the Indo-Pacific’s security architecture while reinforcing its partnerships with key global players.

(Ani)