‘India-US strengthen defence ties for free Indo-Pacific,’ says Rajnath Singh

The discussions primarily revolved around strengthening defence collaboration between India and the US, encompassing areas such as strategic alignment and increased cooperation. The defence minister emphasized the importance of enhancing ties between the two nations.

According to Rajnath Singh the partnership between India and the US is “critical” for ensuring a “free, open and rules-bound Indo-Pacific region.”

In another tweet, the defence minister stated, “India-US partnership is critical for ensuring a free, open and rules-bound Indo-Pacific region. We look forward to closely work with the US across the domains for capacity building and further consolidating our strategic partnership.”

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin said in a tweet, “His leadership has helped paved the way for deeper collaboration, joint exercises, and technology sharing between our two countries.”

India has expressed interest in domestic manufacturing of jet engines through technology transfer to enhance the capabilities of its fighter aircraft, PTI reported. In June 2016, the United States designated India as a “Major Defence Partner,” which opened avenues for the sharing of crucial military equipment and technology between the two countries.

The US Defence Secretary, who arrived in India on Sunday for a two-day visit, conducted an inspection of the Tri-Services Guard of Honour in the presence of the Defence Minister at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi earlier today. This marks Austin’s second visit to India, with his previous visit taking place in March 2021.

According to Ministry of Defence’s press release, LEMOA provides a framework for reciprocal provision of logistic support, supplies and services for activities such as joint exercises, training or humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The agreement does not provide for the establishment of any bases or basing arrangements.

The two sides also signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) in 2018, which provides for interoperability between the two militaries and the sale of high-end technology from the United States to India.

(With inputs from ANI)

Updated: 05 Jun 2023, 02:02 PM IST