Defence Minister Engages in Bilateral Talks at Aero India 2025
During Aero India 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged in discussions with counterparts from Zimbabwe, Yemen, Ethiopia, Gambia, and Gabon. Key agreements focused on enhancing defence cooperation, military training programs, and capacity building initiatives, culminating in signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to formalize these commitments.
On the third day of Aero India 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with defence ministers from Zimbabwe, Yemen, Ethiopia, Gambia, and Gabon in Bengaluru. The meetings were focused on enhancing defence cooperation and military training while fostering capacity-building initiatives across these nations.
In his meeting with Zimbabwe’s Defence Minister, Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, both officials reviewed current defence partnerships and agreed to increase collaboration in military training and capacity development. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation was signed, reinforcing their commitment to regular engagements and exploring opportunities in defence industries and military medicine.
During discussions with Ethiopian Defence Minister Aisha Mohammed, the two parties expressed satisfaction with the progress of bilateral defence relations. They formalized their ongoing cooperation through an MoU that includes military training, peacekeeping efforts, and capacity enhancement for Ethiopian Armed Forces, also emphasizing the role of India’s private sector in the defence field.
The meeting with Yemen’s Defence Minister, Lt. Gen. Mohsen Mohammed Hussein Al Daeri, focused on advancing military training and capacity-building activities. Both ministers aimed to intensify defence cooperation, providing strategic direction for future collaboration initiatives.
In discussions with Gambian Defence Minister Sering Modou Njie, both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening defence cooperation through capacity building and exchanges of best practices. They also underscored the potential for collaborative efforts in the defence industry.
Lastly, the meeting with Gabonese Defence Minister Brigitte Onkanowa targeted bilateral defence cooperation, with both sides committing to enhance training and capabilities for Gabon’s Armed Forces, while discussing opportunities within the defence industry sector.
The bilateral meetings at Aero India 2025 showcased India’s commitment to strengthening defence ties with several nations, focusing on military training, collaboration in the defence industry, and capacity building. Each agreement highlights the importance of regular engagements to ensure effective implementation and explore further collaborative options.
Original Source: ddnews.gov.in
