Did Rajnath Singh and US War Secretary Hegseth Sign a 10-Year Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership?
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Synopsis
In a significant development for international defence relations, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US War Secretary Pete Hegseth signed a transformative 10-year framework in Kuala Lumpur. This partnership aims to bolster US-India defence ties while promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key Takeaways
- The signing of the 10-year US-India Defence Framework marks a new era in bilateral defence relations.
- This agreement aims to enhance military cooperation and regional stability.
- Defence remains a crucial pillar of India-US relations.
- The framework will guide policy direction for the India-US Defence Relationship.
- Singh's visit includes participation in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus.
Kuala Lumpur, Oct 31 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday in Kuala Lumpur, resulting in the signing of a 10-year 'Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership'. This agreement signifies a pivotal moment in enhancing the defence relationship between the two countries.
The meeting took place during the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), which is set to commence on November 1.
“I had a productive discussion with my US counterpart, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, in Kuala Lumpur. We formalized the 10-year 'Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership'. This initiative will initiate a new chapter in our already robust defence alliance,” Singh shared on X after their meeting.
“This Defence Framework will direct policy across the full scope of the India-US Defence Relationship. It reflects our increasing strategic alignment and will mark the beginning of a new decade of collaboration,” the post elaborated.
Singh highlighted that defence will remain a central element of India-US relations, emphasizing that this partnership is vital for maintaining a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
Sharing insights from their discussions, Hegseth posted on X, “I just met with Rajnath Singh to sign a 10-year US-India Defence Framework. This enhances our defence partnership, which is a foundation for regional stability and deterrence. We are strengthening our coordination, information sharing, and technological collaboration. Our defence relations have never been stronger.”
Earlier on Thursday, Singh arrived in Malaysia for a two-day visit to attend the ADMM-Plus, where he was welcomed at Subang Airbase by India's High Commissioner to Malaysia, B.N. Reddy.
The 12th ADMM-Plus in Kuala Lumpur will involve discussions among ASEAN member countries and eight dialogue partners, including India, the US, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.
During this visit, Singh is anticipated to speak on the theme 'Reflection on 15 Years of ADMM-Plus and Charting the Way Forward.'
Additionally, Singh is expected to engage in bilateral meetings with defence ministers and senior officials from the participating nations.
Point of View
The signing of the 10-year defence framework between India and the US exemplifies strategic collaboration that strengthens both nations' security interests. This partnership is crucial for ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific region and reflects India's commitment to fostering international alliances that uphold democratic values and regional security.
NationPress
01/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the US-India Defence Framework?
The US-India Defence Framework is significant as it aims to enhance military cooperation, improve strategic alignment, and ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Who signed the framework?
The framework was signed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of India and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
When was the framework signed?
The framework was signed on October 31, 2023, during the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus.
What are the expected outcomes of this partnership?
This partnership is expected to lead to enhanced coordination, information sharing, and technological cooperation between India and the US.
Where was the agreement signed?
The agreement was signed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
