Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Meeting with Japanese Defence Minister
- Focus on Defence Industry Cooperation
- Discussion on Inter-operability and Bilateral Exercises
- Exploring Cooperation in Air Domain
- Meeting with the Philippines’ Secretary of National Defence
- Strengthening India-Philippines Defence Ties
- ASEAN Coordination and Collaboration
- Highlights of the Three-Day Visit
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh concluded his productive three-day visit to Vientiane, Lao PDR, on November 22, 2024. His engagements included key bilateral meetings with defence counterparts from Japan and the Philippines, showcasing India’s commitment to strengthening defence partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
2. Meeting with Japanese Defence Minister
Focus on Defence Industry Cooperation
Rajnath Singh met his Japanese counterpart Mr. Gen Nakatani to discuss expanding defence industry and technology collaboration. The two leaders reflected on the recently signed Memorandum of Implementation of the UNICORN mast in Japan, emphasizing co-production and co-development in defence manufacturing.
Discussion on Inter-operability and Bilateral Exercises
To boost operational synergy, both nations highlighted the Reciprocal Provision of Supply and Services Agreement and the participation of their forces in joint military exercises, both bilateral and multilateral.
Exploring Cooperation in Air Domain
The Ministers agreed to explore new opportunities in the air domain, aiming to expand India-Japan defence collaboration into emerging areas.
3. Meeting with the Philippines’ Secretary of National Defence
Strengthening India-Philippines Defence Ties
Raksha Mantri’s meeting with Mr. Gilberto Teodoro centered on deepening bilateral cooperation. Both nations agreed on enhancing exchange programs involving subject matter experts and promoting defence industry ties, counter-terrorism efforts, and collaborations in the space and maritime domains.
ASEAN Coordination and Collaboration
Rajnath Singh welcomed the Philippines’ new role as India’s coordinator for ASEAN and ADMM-Plus forums. The two leaders discussed expanding joint efforts to promote regional peace and stability.
4. Highlights of the Three-Day Visit
During his stay, Shri Rajnath Singh attended the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)-Plus, engaging with leaders from Malaysia, Lao PDR, China, the US, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, and Australia. These discussions underscored India’s strategic focus on fostering regional security and defence cooperation.
5. Conclusion
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh’s visit to Vientiane marked significant progress in India’s defence partnerships with Japan, the Philippines, and other key players in the Indo-Pacific. His bilateral meetings and participation in ADMM-Plus showcased India’s commitment to fostering collaboration and maintaining regional stability.
