How are Rajnath Singh and his Malaysian counterpart strengthening bilateral defence ties?
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Synopsis
In a significant meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Malaysian counterpart discussed enhancing the bilateral defence partnership amidst key ASEAN defence meetings. The dialogue highlights India's strategic engagement in Southeast Asia and its commitment to regional security.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening bilateral defence ties is a priority for India and Malaysia.
- The meeting coincides with significant ASEAN defence conferences, enhancing regional cooperation.
- India's role in the ADMM-Plus reflects its commitment to ASEAN nations.
- The new defence partnership framework with the US signifies deeper military ties.
- Counter-terrorism collaboration is a focus under the ADMM-Plus framework.
Kuala Lumpur, Oct 31 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh convened with his Malaysian counterpart Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Friday, where they explored avenues to enhance the bilateral defence collaboration.
"Engaged in a productive dialogue with Malaysia's Defence Minister, Dato' Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin in Kuala Lumpur. We discussed methods to fortify the India-Malaysia defence partnership," Singh shared on X after their meeting.
This bilateral discussion occurred during the 19th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and the upcoming 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).
The second ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting, under Malaysia's chairmanship, is also in progress, where Defence Ministers from all ASEAN member nations will participate. This meeting seeks to bolster defence and security cooperation among ASEAN nations and India, as well as promote the Act East Policy, according to the Ministry of Defence.
Earlier that day, Singh met with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in Kuala Lumpur, where the two leaders formalized a 10-year ‘Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership’, marking a significant step in deepening military ties between the nations.
"Had a successful meeting with my US counterpart Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in Kuala Lumpur. We signed the 10-year Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership. This will usher in a new era in our already robust defence partnership," Singh noted on X after the meeting.
"This Defence Framework will outline policy direction for the entire spectrum of the India-US Defence Relationship. It signifies our increasing strategic alignment and will pave the way for a new decade of partnership," the post elaborated.
Singh arrived in Malaysia on Thursday for a two-day visit to attend the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus). India's High Commissioner to Malaysia, B N Reddy, welcomed Singh at the Subang Airbase.
The ADMM serves as the premier defence consultative and cooperative framework within ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). The ADMM-Plus platform includes ASEAN member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste & Vietnam) along with its eight Dialogue Partners (India, US, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia & New Zealand) to enhance security and defence collaboration," the statement further noted.
India became an ASEAN dialogue partner in 1992, with the inaugural ADMM-Plus held in Vietnam's Hanoi on October 12, 2010. Since 2017, ADMM-Plus has been hosted annually to strengthen defence ties between ASEAN and its partner countries. As part of the ADMM-Plus framework, India is co-chairing the Experts Working Group on Counter Terrorism with Malaysia for the cycle spanning 2024-2027. Additionally, the second edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise is scheduled for 2026.
Point of View
The discussions between India's Defence Minister and his Malaysian counterpart signify a proactive approach to regional security. The ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral defence relations reflect India's commitment to fostering stronger ties within ASEAN, ensuring stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
NationPress
03/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Rajnath Singh's visit to Malaysia?
The purpose of Rajnath Singh's visit to Malaysia was to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral defence ties with his Malaysian counterpart during the 19th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting.
What agreements were signed during the meetings?
During the meetings, a 10-year 'Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership' was signed between Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
What is the significance of the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting?
The ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting serves as a premier platform for ASEAN nations to enhance security and defence cooperation, involving key dialogue partners like India and the US.
How does India engage with ASEAN countries?
India engages with ASEAN countries through dialogue partnerships, collaborative defence exercises, and participation in multilateral meetings focused on regional security.
What role does India play in the ADMM-Plus?
India co-chairs the Experts Working Group on Counter Terrorism with Malaysia under the ADMM-Plus framework, promoting collaborative efforts in combating terrorism.
