New Delhi, March 22 (NationPress) The focus on bilateral military cooperation was paramount at the 13th session of the India-Italy Military Cooperation Group (MCG) meeting that took place in Rome, according to an official statement released on Saturday.

The dialogue during the meeting centered on the improvement of exchange programs, development of capabilities, and the strengthening of ties between the Indian and Italian armed forces.

This meeting occurred from March 20-21, 2025, in Rome, Italy.

Participants reviewed the current defense engagements, evaluated their effectiveness, and discussed avenues to enhance future collaborative efforts, as stated in the official release.

The meeting was co-chaired by the Deputy Assistant Chief of Integrated Defence Staff IDC (A) from Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), representing India, alongside the Deputy Head of the Strategic Direction and Military Cooperation Division of the Italian Defence General Staff, representing Italy.

The MCG functions as a vital institutional framework aimed at bolstering defense cooperation between the armed forces of both countries, promoting more robust military-to-military interactions and strategic alliances.

Earlier this month, the ninth edition of the India-Australia Defence Policy Talks took place in Delhi, where both parties emphasized cooperation priorities, including maritime domain awareness, reciprocal information sharing, collaboration in industry and science and technology, along with joint exercises and exchanges.

The Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary Amitabh Prasad, while the Australian contingent was headed by First Assistant Secretary International Policy Division, Department of Defence Australia Bernard Philip.

Both nations acknowledged the consistent advancements in their bilateral defense cooperation, highlighting the increasing frequency and complexity of their defense exercises and exchanges.

This collaboration included several significant first-time milestones, the finalization of crucial agreements, and participation in each other's major defense trade exhibitions.

Both sides agreed on priorities and preparations for the upcoming 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue scheduled to be held in Australia in 2025.

They reaffirmed their dedication to developing a long-term vision for defense and security collaboration between the two nations, as outlined by both Prime Ministers, aimed at enhancing collective security and making substantial contributions to regional peace and stability.