Rajnath Singh held bilateral discussions with the Defence Ministers of Tanzania, Zambia, and Algeria to enhance defense cooperation. Key topics included the Africa-India Maritime Exercise planned for April 2025, a Joint Commission in Algeria, and capacity building efforts with Zambia related to UN peacekeeping. The Aero India exhibition set for February 2025 also plays a role in strengthening these partnerships.
Rajnath Singh, the Defence Minister of India, held significant bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Tanzania, Zambia, and Algeria, fostering stronger defence collaborations between India and these African nations. Importantly, both India and Tanzania look forward to co-hosting the inaugural Africa-India Maritime Exercise scheduled for April 2025, which marks a notable step in enhancing maritime security engagement.
During his meeting with Algeria’s Minister Delegate to the Ministry of National Defence, discussions were focused on fortifying defense ties through various sectors. The potential establishment of a Joint Commission in the Military Field was also considered, aimed at optimizing the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that facilitates their defence cooperation.
In a separate meeting with the Zambian Defence Minister, both nations assessed their defense partnership, with particular emphasis on capacity building and collaboration in United Nations peacekeeping operations. There was also a mutual commitment to accelerate the finalization of the Terms of Reference for the establishment of a Joint Defence Cooperation Committee, reinforcing their operational coordination.
Furthermore, the upcoming Aero India event, set to take place from February 10 to 14, 2025, was highlighted, underscoring India’s commitment to promoting international defense exhibitions and partnerships. This engagement reflects India’s strategic intent to bolster its ties with African nations in the defense sector.
In summary, the bilateral meetings conducted by Rajnath Singh with the Defence Ministers of Tanzania, Zambia, and Algeria reflect India’s strategic commitment to enhancing defense cooperation with African nations. The discussions revolved around maritime exercises, joint defense initiatives, and the establishment of institutional frameworks that facilitate stronger ties in military collaboration. This engagement symbolizes a progressive step towards collaborative security measures between India and Africa.
Original Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com
