Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Fiji and South Sudan representatives, focusing on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation. Fiji and India established a Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation, while discussions with South Sudan emphasized training and partnerships. Aero India 2025 served as a backdrop for these significant engagements.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Fiji and South Sudan during his visit to Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru. He welcomed the Fijian Defence Minister, Pio Tikoduadua, on his first visit to India, where both nations expressed satisfaction with their defence cooperation and agreed to enhance it further. They decided to establish the India-Fiji Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation, building on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2017. The discussions also included improving maritime security and training for UN peacekeepers.
In his meeting with South Sudan’s Defence Minister, Lt Gen Chol Thon J. Balok, Singh emphasized India’s contributions to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. Both parties agreed to expedite a Memorandum of Understanding to advance their defence relations, focusing on increasing training exchanges and developing industry partnerships. Singh showcased his encounters with the Fijian and South Sudanese representatives through social media, highlighting their discussions on enhanced bilateral cooperation.
The Aero India exhibition, being Asia’s largest aerospace and defence show, commenced this week at Yelahanka Air Force Station. Singh highlighted the platform’s significance in promoting India’s vision of a “strong, capable, secure, and self-reliant India.” This event serves as a key opportunity for fostering international defence collaborations and showcasing India’s advancements in the aerospace sector.
The bilateral meetings between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and officials from Fiji and South Sudan reflect India’s commitment to strengthening its international defence partnerships. Fiji, an essential member of the Pacific Islands, and South Sudan, a nation reliant on India’s support in peacekeeping, represent India’s strategic interests in enhancing diplomatic relations within the Asia-Pacific and African regions. The establishment of joint working groups and agreements for defence collaboration signifies a proactive approach towards regional stability and cooperation.
In conclusion, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s meetings with his Fijian and South Sudanese counterparts underscore India’s dedication to enhancing international defence cooperation. By agreeing to formalize partnerships and undertake collaborative efforts, both countries are poised to further strengthen their military ties. The Aero India 2025 exhibition serves as a vital platform for showcasing this commitment while promoting global peace and security initiatives.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
