Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged in bilateral meetings with counterparts from Zimbabwe, Yemen, Ethiopia, Gambia, and Gabon during Aero India 2025. Discussions focused on enhancing defence cooperation, military training, and capacity-building efforts, resulting in several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to formalize these commitments.
On the third day of Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged in a series of bilateral discussions with leaders from Zimbabwe, Yemen, Ethiopia, Gambia, and Gabon. The primary focus of these meetings was to enhance defence cooperation, military training, and capacity-building initiatives among the nations involved.
In his meeting with Zimbabwe’s Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, the two officials reviewed their current defence cooperation. They agreed to improve collaboration in military training and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to solidify their partnership. Both sides emphasized the importance of regular communications to effectively implement the MoU, while also exploring potential collaboration in defence industries and military medicine.
During the discussions with Ethiopian Defence Minister Aisha Mohammed, the two parties expressed satisfaction with the growth of their bilateral ties. They signed an MoU to formalize ongoing cooperation, focusing on military training and peacekeeping efforts. Furthermore, the leaders emphasized the role of India’s private sector within the defence industry and potential opportunities for collaboration.
In his meeting with Yemen’s Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Mohsen Mohammed Hussein Al Daeri, Minister Rajnath Singh sought to enhance military training and capacity building initiatives for Yemen’s Armed Forces. The discussions aimed to foster stronger defence cooperation, with strategic guidance for future collaborative efforts.
The dialogue with Gambian Defence Minister Sering Modou Njie reaffirmed the commitment to advance cooperation in defence sectors. Both leaders highlighted the significance of capacity building and the exchange of best practices. Additionally, they discussed opportunities for collaboration within the defence industry.
Finally, in talks with Gabonese Defence Minister Brigitte Onkanowa, Minister Singh pledged to bolster bilateral defence cooperation. The focus was on enhancing training and capabilities for Gabon’s Armed Forces, as well as exploring potential collaborations in the defence industry.
In summary, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s engagements during Aero India 2025 emphasized the commitment towards strengthening defence cooperation with several nations. The signing of various Memoranda of Understanding signifies a deepening of ties, with particular attention to military training, capacity building, and industry collaboration. These bilateral talks highlight India’s role in fostering global defence partnerships.
Original Source: ddnews.gov.in
