Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged with Fijian and South Sudanese counterparts to enhance international defence collaboration. Key outcomes include establishing a Joint Working Group with Fiji and negotiating a Memorandum of Understanding with South Sudan. The discussions focus on maritime security, training exchanges, and contributions to UN peacekeeping missions, showcasing India’s strategic international relationships.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed his Fijian counterpart, marking his first visit to India. Both nations expressed satisfaction with existing defence cooperation and agreed to enhance their collaboration further. This includes establishing an India-Fiji Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation, as per the MoU signed in 2017. They aim to bolster maritime safety, protect Exclusive Economic Zones, and improve naval training initiatives, emphasizing India’s strategic engagement with Fiji, a significant player among Pacific Island Countries.
In discussions with South Sudanese Defence Minister Lt Gen Chol Thon J. Balok, Minister Singh expressed gratitude for the participation in Aero India 2025. The two sides resolved to accelerate the formation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to better organize their defence collaboration. Both ministers acknowledged India’s contributions to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan and proposed expanded training exchanges and industry partnerships.
Singh shared insights from his meetings via social media. He remarked on the productive discussions with Fijian Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua regarding deepening defence cooperation. Furthermore, he confirmed collaboration mechanisms with South Sudan while evaluating their ongoing defence initiatives, particularly in peacekeeping. The Defence Minister underscored the importance of the Aero India event in promoting India’s vision of a robust, secure, and self-reliant defense framework.
The article discusses recent bilateral meetings held by India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with ministers from Fiji and South Sudan. These dialogues are focused on enhancing defence cooperation through institutional measures and partnerships. The broader context involves India’s increasing strategic relationships with Pacific Island nations and its commitment to international peacekeeping operations, particularly in South Sudan.
In summary, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s bilateral meetings with his Fijian and South Sudanese counterparts reflect India’s commitment to strengthening international defence collaborations. The establishment of dedicated working groups and frameworks for cooperation showcases India’s proactive approach to enhancing regional security and engagement, particularly within the Pacific and African regions. Such initiatives underline the strategic importance India places on international partnerships in defense and peacekeeping.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
