Ahead of the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged in bilateral discussions with his Australian counterpart, Richard Marles. The discussions focused on enhancing military cooperation in specialized training realms such as Artificial Intelligence, anti-submarine, anti-drone warfare, and the cyber domain. Both nations acknowledged that a robust defence partnership would contribute positively to the overall security of the Indo-Pacific region.
During the meeting on November 20, 2023, Defence Minister Singh and Australian Deputy Prime Minister cum Defence Minister Richard Marles reiterated their dedication to fortifying bilateral defence relations. They expressed contentment with the escalating military collaboration, encompassing joint exercises, exchanges, and institutional dialogues. According to an official statement issued by the Indian Ministry of Defence, Singh commended the visiting minister on Australia’s successful execution of the multilateral exercise ‘Malabar’ in August.
Stressing the importance of increased cooperation, the ministers highlighted the need for information exchange and heightened awareness in the maritime domain. Ongoing discussions aim to finalize implementing arrangements on Hydrography Cooperation and air-to-air refuelling. Singh proposed exploring collaboration in niche training areas like Artificial Intelligence, anti-submarine warfare, anti-drone warfare, and the cyber domain.
Both ministers also delved into potential collaborations in shipbuilding, ship repair, maintenance, and aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO). Additionally, they considered joint research in underwater technologies and collaboration between defence start-ups to address shared challenges. And they concurred that strengthening the India-Australia defence partnership not only benefits both nations but also contributes significantly to the overall security of the Indo-Pacific, fostering a stable and secure environment for regional prosperity and cooperation.
Ahead of the visit to India, Marles, who also holds the post of deputy prime minister, had said that India is a top-tier security partner for Australia. And, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is one of practical, concrete actions that directly benefit the Indo-Pacific region.
In 2023, there were several firsts in the India-Australia defence relations including a visit by Indian Navy’s submarine to Perth, Australia hosting Exercise Malabar, thus proving the close relations the two countries have in the security partnership.
The visiting minister also met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday in New Delhi. And on X (formerly known as Twitter) posted that he had a good discussion with DPM and Defence Minister Marles. And stated that the two exchanged views on West Asia and talked about recent developments that influence the Indo-Pacific strategic scenario.
Jaishankar and Ms Penny Wong will co-chair the foreign ministerial framework dialogue on November 21 (Tuesday) and the two will not only exchange views on regional and global issues but will also evaluate cooperation under the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.
India and Australia are holding the second edition of the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue and as two partners in QUAD the two sides are working together through the comprehensive strategic partnership. The focus is on promoting a stable, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Marles after his engagements in India is scheduled to travel to UAE to have meetings with his counterparts.