Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a significant meeting with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, focusing on key strategic issues that are set to further cement the burgeoning US-India defence partnership.
This meeting comes in the wake of two critical agreements signed between the two nations, underscoring the deepening of their comprehensive global strategic ties.
Singh, who arrived in Washington on Thursday for a four-day official visit, is keen on fortifying the US-India strategic partnership, especially in the defence sector.
His engagement with Sullivan on Friday highlighted mutual interests in strategic domains, with both sides aligning their perspectives on vital security matters.
The Defence Minister took to social media platform X to share the outcome of his meeting, expressing his satisfaction with the discussions.
"Delighted to meet the National Security Advisor of the United States, Jake Sullivan, and share perspectives on key strategic matters of mutual interest," Singh posted, underscoring the importance of this high-level dialogue.
In addition to his interaction with Sullivan, Singh also engaged with top executives from leading US defence companies in a roundtable organised by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).
He extended an invitation to these companies to collaborate with Indian firms, particularly in the context of India’s Make in India initiative, which aims to achieve self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in the defence sector.
"Together, Indian and US companies will co-develop and co-produce for the world," Singh asserted, reflecting his commitment to transforming India into a global defence manufacturing hub.
USISPF, in its statement, echoed Singh's sentiments, emphasising the "phenomenal growth" of the US-India defence relationship.
Singh’s discussion with USISPF Board members and defence industry leaders revolved around the central role of defence cooperation in India’s growth story and Vision 2047—a roadmap for India’s centennial celebrations post-independence.
Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of USISPF, noted Singh's emphasis on the deepening of defence synergy between the two nations. "The strategic depth of this relationship is now being driven by the private sector, particularly in emerging technologies like cyber, drones, AI, space, and quantum," Aghi remarked.
Earlier in the day, Singh met US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, where the two reviewed existing defence cooperation and explored avenues for further collaboration.
"Excellent meeting with my dear friend Lloyd Austin," Singh said on X, adding that they discussed ways to deepen defence ties even further.
The recent agreements signed between India and the US are poised to be game-changers. The Security of Supply Arrangements (SOSA) and the Memorandum of Agreement for positioning Indian liaison officers at key US commands are seen as pivotal in enhancing bilateral defence cooperation.
Singh also took time during his visit to connect with the Indian community in the US, underscoring the strong diaspora ties that further bolster the US-India relationship.
Follow us
