Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with Singapore’s Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines, on October 28, 2026, to review ongoing defence cooperation and explore new avenues for collaboration.
According to the Ministry of Defence, both ministers expressed satisfaction with the momentum in bilateral defence relations, rooted in longstanding historical ties and a strong strategic partnership.
The discussions focused on expanding joint military exercises involving the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force to enhance operational coordination, interoperability and mutual understanding between the armed forces of the two countries.
Rajnath Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to ASEAN centrality and a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, describing Singapore as a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy.
Strengthening defence industry and technology cooperation also featured in the discussions. Singh invited his Singaporean counterpart to attend Aero India 2027, scheduled to be held in Bengaluru in February 2027.
He also congratulated Chan Chun Sing on Singapore taking over the chair of ADMM-Plus for 2027 and conveyed his best wishes.
The meeting underscores the continued focus of India and Singapore on strengthening defence engagement, expanding military-to-military cooperation and advancing their shared interests in regional security and stability.
(Picture used for representation purpose only)
