Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Fiji’s and South Sudan’s defence ministers to discuss enhancing defence cooperation. They agreed to institutionalize the India-Fiji Joint Working Group during Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, while assessing ongoing cooperation with South Sudan, particularly in UN peacekeeping efforts.
On Sunday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh convened with Fijian Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua to enhance bilateral defence cooperation. The discussion primarily centered on formalizing the India-Fiji Joint Working Group (JWG) dedicated to defense collaboration. This meeting occurred in Bengaluru, coinciding with the commencement of Aero India 2025, scheduled to begin Monday.
Minister Tikoduadua expressed optimism regarding the enhanced relationship between Fiji and India, emphasizing their long-standing history of collaboration. Following their discussion, Minister Singh shared on social media that he also engaged with South Sudanese Defence Minister Lt Gen Chol Thon J Balok, during which they assessed current defense cooperation efforts, including participation in UN peacekeeping missions.
The meetings reflect India’s commitment to strengthening international defense partnerships, particularly in the Pacific and African regions. By institutionalizing the Joint Working Group with Fiji and advancing dialogue with South Sudan, India aims to bolster strategic alliances and collaborative efforts in maintaining peace and security in respective areas.
In summary, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s meetings with the defence ministers of Fiji and South Sudan highlight India’s commitment to deepening international defence cooperation. The establishment of a Joint Working Group with Fiji signifies a strategic step toward enhancing bilateral ties, while ongoing discussions with South Sudan reinforce India’s role in international peacekeeping initiatives.
Original Source: www.deccanherald.com
