During Aero India 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged with the Defence Ministers of Zimbabwe, Yemen, Ethiopia, Gambia, and Gabon to enhance bilateral defence cooperation. Key agreements included the signing of MoUs with Zimbabwe and Ethiopia to foster military training, capacity building, and industry collaboration. Discussions emphasized the significance of ongoing engagements to strengthen international defence ties.
At Aero India 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of India engaged in significant bilateral meetings with multiple international counterparts, including Zimbabwe’s Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, Yemen’s Lt Gen Mohsen Mohammed Hussein Al Daeri, Ethiopia’s Aisha Mohammed, Gambia’s Sering Modou Njie, and Gabon’s Brigitte Onkanowa, all held in Bengaluru.
In discussions with Zimbabwe’s Defence Minister, both parties evaluated their existing defence cooperation, with plans to enhance mutual collaboration through military training and capacity building initiatives for Zimbabwe’s Armed Forces. They formalized their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to solidify future engagements and highlighted the need for consistent communication between their Defense Ministries to ensure effective implementation.
During his meeting with the Ethiopian Defence Minister, Singh noted the robust development of defence relations and both officials agreed to a new MoU, which will focus on military training, peacekeeping initiatives, and capacity enhancement for Ethiopia’s forces. They also delved into ways to amplify collaboration in the defense sector, particularly involving India’s private sector in production.
With Yemen’s Defence Minister, the leaders underscored the importance of expanding military training and capacity building programs. They expressed commitment to deepening bilateral defence ties, aiming to strengthen partnerships in these crucial areas.
In discussions with Gambia’s Defence Minister, the focus remained on bolstering defence collaboration through capacity building and enhancement of operational capabilities, while sharing best practices for mutual advantage. Both leaders acknowledged significant potential for further cooperation in the defence industry.
Lastly, Singh’s meeting with Gabon’s Defence Minister revolved around the enhancement of bilateral defence cooperation, specifically in training and capability improvements for Gabon’s Armed Forces. Both participants exhibited interest in exploring collaborative opportunities within the defence sector.
Through these bilateral meetings, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has taken pivotal steps to enhance India’s defence collaborations with several nations, focusing on training, capacity building, and cooperation in the defence industry. The signing of MoUs with Zimbabwe and Ethiopia signifies a commitment to formalize these relationships, ensuring mutual growth in military capabilities. Enhanced dialogues with Yemen, Gambia, and Gabon further demonstrate the strategic importance of international defence partnerships in fostering regional stability.
Original Source: www.thestatesman.com
