Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Tanzania, Zambia, and Algeria during Aero India 2025. Key topics included enhancing defense cooperation, addressing cross-border terrorism, and finalizing agreements for joint military initiatives. Notably, the nations are set to co-host the first Africa-India Maritime Exercise in April 2025, highlighting India’s commitment to regional security partnerships.
On Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hosted bilateral meetings with key officials from Tanzania, Algeria, and Zambia during Aero India 2025. Singh engaged with Dr. Stergomena Lawrence Tax, the Defence Minister of Tanzania, focusing on issues such as cross-border terrorism and enhancing bilateral defense cooperation in areas including shipbuilding and dockyard development.
During the discussions, both leaders expressed their support for co-hosting the inaugural Africa-India Maritime Exercise scheduled for April 2025. Singh also met with General Saïd Chengriha, the Minister Delegate to Algeria’s Minister of National Defence, to fortify defense ties across various sectors, emphasizing the need for a Joint Commission in the Military Field to optimize existing agreements.
In his meeting with Zambia’s Minister of Defence, Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma, Singh reviewed strategies to bolster defense collaboration, specifically in capacity building and participation in UN peacekeeping missions. The ministers agreed to expedite the finalization of Terms of Reference for establishing a Joint Defence Cooperation Committee. Aero India 2025 will take place from February 10 to 14.
These discussions highlight India’s commitment to enhancing defense ties with African nations, fostering collaborative military efforts, and addressing regional security challenges effectively.
In summary, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s meetings with the Defence Ministers of Tanzania, Zambia, and Algeria underline India’s proactive approach towards strengthening bilateral defense ties. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in military operations, shipbuilding, and peacekeeping missions. The anticipated Africa-India Maritime Exercise in April 2025 is a significant milestone in fostering close military collaboration.
Original Source: www.news18.com
