Ahead of Aero India 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Fiji’s Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua and South Sudan’s Defence Minister Lt Gen Chol Thon J. Balok in Bengaluru. They agreed to enhance defense cooperation and formalize a working group with Fiji while promoting training exchanges and partnerships with South Sudan. These discussions align with India’s efforts to strengthen its defense relations globally.
In preparation for Aero India 2025, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conducted bilateral meetings with the Defence Ministers from Fiji and South Sudan in Bengaluru. During these discussions, Minister Singh welcomed Fiji’s Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua on his inaugural visit to India. Both officials expressed satisfaction with the existing defence cooperation and committed to enhancing and diversifying their collaboration further.
India and Fiji have agreed to establish the India-Fiji Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation, following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2017. They will focus on improving Maritime Domain Awareness to bolster maritime safety, protect Exclusive Economic Zones, and enhance naval capacity and training for UN peacekeepers. This initiative signifies India’s increasing diplomatic engagement with Fiji, a vital player in the Pacific Island countries.
Regarding the meeting with South Sudan’s Defence Minister, Lieutenant General Chol Thon J. Balok, Minister Singh expressed gratitude for the Minister’s participation in Aero India 2025. The two sides reached an understanding to expedite a Memorandum of Understanding to guide their defence cooperation effectively. South Sudan recognized India’s contributions to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan and agreed to foster improved training exchanges and industrial partnerships.
Minister Singh shared highlights of these meetings on social media, stating, “Had an appreciative meeting with the Defence Minister of Fiji, Mr. Pio Tikoduadua in Bengaluru. Discussed ways and means to further deepen defence cooperation. We agreed to institutionalize India-Fiji Joint Working Group (JWG) on Defence Cooperation.” Additionally, he remarked, “Met with the Defence Minister of South Sudan Lt Gen Chol Thon J. Balok on the sidelines of AERO India 2025. We reviewed the ongoing defence cooperation including the UN peacekeeping cooperation.”
The 15th edition of Aero India, the largest aerospace and defence exhibition in Asia, commenced at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. Minister Singh emphasized that Aero India serves as a vital platform promoting the government’s vision of a “strong, capable, secure and self-reliant India.”
The article addresses the bilateral meetings conducted by India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with his counterparts from Fiji and South Sudan. This is set against the backdrop of the upcoming Aero India 2025 event, highlighting the significance of international cooperation in defense. The discussions indicate a strategic approach by India to strengthen military ties and enhance maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, while also reaffirming India’s commitments to global peacekeeping initiatives.
In conclusion, Minister Rajnath Singh’s meetings with the Defence Ministers of Fiji and South Sudan underscore India’s commitment to deepening defense cooperation and fostering international partnerships. The establishment of a Joint Working Group with Fiji and the agreements with South Sudan signal progressive moves towards enhancing defence capabilities and regional security. These engagements mark a pivotal step for India in solidifying its role in global defence diplomacy, especially in light of the Aero India exhibition.
Original Source: thenewsmill.com
