Defense Ministers Meet on Sidelines of ASEAN
Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh held meetings with various international counterparts on the sidelines of the 11th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)-Plus in Vientiane, Lao PDR on November 21, 2024. Among the officials he met were US Secretary of Defense Mr. Lloyd J Austin, Minister of National Defense of the Republic of Korea Mr. Kim Yong Hyun, Minister for Defense Industry & Capability Delivery of Australia Mr. Pat Conroy, and Defense Minister of New Zealand Ms. Judith Collins.
During the meeting with Mr. Kim Yong Hyun, both sides acknowledged the positive trajectory of bilateral defense cooperation and the need for strong defense relations due to the similarity of challenges and threats faced by the two nations. They agreed to work together on the ‘Road map for Defense Industry Corporation,’ signed in February 2020, through established mechanisms like the Defense Policy Dialogue (DPD). The next edition of the DPD is scheduled for December 2024.
Rajnath Singh emphasized the potential for growth in co-production and co-development in the defense manufacturing ecosystems of India and Korea. He invited the Korean side to invest in India’s defense corridors, which offer tremendous opportunities for Korean companies to establish manufacturing facilities. The two countries share a Special Strategic Partnership that has seen significant progress in recent years.
During the meeting with Mr. Pat Conroy, Rajnath Singh expressed satisfaction with the milestones achieved in defense engagements between India and Australia. He highlighted the untapped potential for collaboration and cooperation between Indian and Australian defense industries in niche areas. Both sides also exchanged an implementing arrangement on Air-to-Air refueling, which will enhance interoperability between the two Air Forces.
In the meeting with Ms. Judith Collins, Rajnath Singh emphasized the strong relationship between India and New Zealand, anchored in shared democratic traditions, governance institutions, the rule of law, the English language, and common interests such as cricket, mountaineering, and hockey. He requested the early finalization of the Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) to further strengthen defense cooperation between the two countries. Rajnath Singh also highlighted India’s strong shipbuilding industry and both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in this important area.
These meetings reflect India’s commitment to strengthening defense ties with key international partners and promoting collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The discussions held during the ADMM-Plus will contribute to the growth and development of defense cooperation among participating nations, ensuring peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.