Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Meets UK Counterpart to Discuss Defence and Security
London: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with his British counterpart Grant Shapps on Tuesday to engage in “fruitful discussions” regarding defence cooperation, security, and the enhancement of defence industrial cooperation. This visit marks the first by an Indian defence minister to the UK in 22 years, with the last one occurring in January 2002.
During the meeting, Singh and Shapps reviewed the entire spectrum of India-UK defence relations. Singh expressed his appreciation for the growing strategic convergence between the two countries, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The meeting was described as “very warm” and resulted in a fruitful exchange of ideas.
Following the bilateral discussions, two agreements were signed: a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the conduct of a bilateral international cadet exchange programme, and a Letter of Arrangement between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) on defence collaboration in research and development. These agreements aim to boost people-to-people exchanges, especially among the youth, and promote collaboration in defence research between the two nations.
Singh was greeted by Shapps with a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall, the UK government headquarters. The parade consisted of the British Army’s Number 7 Company Coldstream Guards and the Band of the Irish Guards. This gesture demonstrated the high regard and respect for the esteemed visitor.
The Indian Ministry of Defence emphasized that the relationship between India and the UK is not transactional but based on shared goals and commonalities. Both countries are committed to revitalizing and strengthening their partnership in various domains, including trade, investment, technology, defence, security, and global issues such as climate change and health.
Singh’s visit also included paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue in Tavistock Square and visiting the Ambedkar Museum to honor Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and a prominent Dalit rights activist. Singh is expected to hold further meetings with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Foreign Secretary David Cameron.
This visit aims to enhance understanding and cooperation between the two countries and further strengthen the strategic partnership between India and the UK.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently held a meeting with his UK counterpart, Grant Shapps, to discuss crucial aspects of defence and security. The meeting aimed to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and the United Kingdom in the realm of defense cooperation. Both ministers deliberated on various matters, including defense procurement, joint exercises, and technology collaboration. The discussions emphasized the importance of enhancing maritime security, counter-terrorism efforts, intelligence sharing, and cybersecurity cooperation. This meeting further solidifies the commitment of both countries to work together in safeguarding their national interests and promoting global peace and stability.
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