Rajnath Singh Engages in Bilateral Talks with Fiji and South Sudan…

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral meetings with Fiji and South Sudan counterparts to discuss enhancing defense cooperation ahead of Aero India 2025. Key agreements included formalizing the India-Fiji Joint Working Group and initiating a Memorandum of Understanding with South Sudan, focusing on maritime security and UN peacekeeping training.

During his visit to Bengaluru, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged in bilateral discussions with Fiji’s Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua and South Sudan’s Defence Minister Lt Gen Chol Thon J Balok. These meetings occurred in preparation for Aero India 2025, emphasizing collaboration and military cooperation between the nations.

Minister Singh warmly welcomed the Fijian Defence Minister on his first visit to India. The two officials expressed contentment with existing defense partnerships and committed to enhancing their collaboration further. They agreed to formalize the India-Fiji Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation, as outlined in their 2017 Memorandum of Understanding.

The discussions also encompassed augmenting maritime domain awareness to secure safety in maritime operations and extend naval capacity-building initiatives, including training for United Nations peacekeepers and defense civilians. This visit signifies a substantial advance in India’s engagement with Fiji, an important member of the Pacific Island nations.

Separately, during the meeting with the South Sudanese Minister, Singh acknowledged their participation in Aero India 2025 and emphasized the urgency to develop a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance defense collaboration. The South Sudanese officials recognized India’s contributions to the United Nations Mission in their country and showed interest in strengthening training exchanges and forging industry partnerships.

Singh shared insights from these meetings on social media, highlighting his discussions with both counterparts about furthering defense cooperation and formalizing cooperation frameworks. Aero India 2025, taking place at Yelahanka Air Force Station, serves as an influential platform advancing India’s vision of a robust and self-sufficient nation.

The bilateral meetings held by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh signify India’s efforts to reinforce its defense ties with Pacific and African nations. The discussions focused on enhancing existing collaborations, especially maritime security and training for peacekeeping missions. Such engagements align with India’s strategy to bolster its influence and partnership in global security matters, particularly in regions of strategic importance.

In summary, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s meetings with the Defence Ministers of Fiji and South Sudan mark a significant step towards strengthening India’s defense collaborations. The agreements made focus on deepening ties, enhancing maritime security, and institutionalizing frameworks for continued cooperation, reinforcing India’s commitment to international partnerships and stability in various regions.

Original Source: thenewsmill.com