Cebu [Philippines]: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines, on October 28. The discussions focused on reviewing bilateral defence cooperation, enhancing military interoperability and addressing regional security challenges.
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Following the meeting, Singh described the discussions as productive and reiterates India’s commitment to its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Australia. He emphasised the importance of cooperation in supporting a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific.
The two leaders also exchanged gifts as a gesture of goodwill. Singh invited Marles to attend Aero India 2027, scheduled to take place in Bengaluru in February 2027, providing an opportunity to further strengthen defence engagement between the two countries.
India and Australia have expanded their defence engagement through military exchanges, joint exercises and strategic consultations. Their cooperation reflects shared interests in regional stability and closer coordination across the Indo-Pacific.
The meeting took place as Singh leads India’s delegation at ADMM-Plus, held in Cebu on October 28–29. The forum bought together ASEAN members and eight dialogue partners, including India and Australia, to discuss regional security and strengthen defence cooperation.
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