India Boosts Defence Diplomacy with Australia, EU, and Netherlands in Singapore

During the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh engaged in crucial talks with senior officials from Australia, the European Union, and the Netherlands. These discussions were aimed at bolstering India's defence diplomacy with its Indo-Pacific and European allies.

After a meeting with Australian Defence Secretary Meghan Quinn, the Indian defence ministry highlighted strides in the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Both nations reviewed progress, planned upcoming high-level engagements, and discussed new avenues for defence cooperation. The strategic relevance of their defence partnership grows as security in the Indo-Pacific remains a priority.

The defence talks extended to meetings with Belen Martínez Carbonell of the European External Action Service and Enrico Barduani of the EU Military Committee. Dialogue focused on shared security interests and advancing strategic cooperation between India and the EU. Additionally, discussions with Netherlands Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgoz-Zegerius centered on enhancing military ties and exploring defence industry collaborations.

These engagements underline the increasing importance of strategic partnerships in the region amid global competition, with the Indo-Pacific playing a central role in India's security strategy.

(With inputs from agencies.)