Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines, on October 28, reviewing progress under the India-US Major Defence Partnership and exploring new avenues to strengthen military co-operation.
The discussions focused on advancing operational readiness, technology sharing, defence industrial integration and regional security, reaffirming the strategic importance of the India-US partnership in the Indo-Pacific.
10-Year Defence Framework Under Review:
Both sides reviewed progress under the 10-year India-US Defence Framework and noted the continued advancement of foundational security agreements. They explored opportunities to strengthen military-to-military exchanges, expand maritime security cooperation and build resilient defence supply chains.
The two leaders also discussed ways to deepen defence industry collaboration and improve integration between the defence industrial bases of both countries, with a focus on advancing their broader strategic partnership.
India and US Reaffirm Joint Resolve Against Terrorism:
Counterterrorism emerged as a key focus of the meeting. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called for a zero-tolerance approach towards countries that support, train or finance terrorist organisations.
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s support for India in its fight against cross-border terrorism. Defence Minister Singh expressed appreciation for the continued support extended by the United States.
Shared Vision for a Secure Indo-Pacific:
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to elevating bilateral defence relations towards greater strategic convergence. Enhanced operational cooperation, maritime security and defence industrial collaboration remain important pillars of the partnership.
In a post on X following the meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the India-US partnership as a cornerstone for a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific.
The engagement underscores the continued efforts of India and the United States to strengthen defence ties, enhance military capabilities and advance shared security interests across the Indo-Pacific region.
