Rajnath Singh Promises Stronger ASEAN-India Defence Cooperation

India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during an informal meeting in Kuala Lumpur on October 6, 2023. This gathering focused on enhancing shared prosperity, maritime security, and defence cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Singh emphasized that the ASEAN-India relationship will act as a “strong pillar of stability” in a changing global landscape. He noted that both ASEAN and India are experiencing rapid economic growth, creating a foundation for deeper trade ties. “To further strengthen trade relations with ASEAN, we look forward to the early completion of the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement,” he stated.

The Defence Minister highlighted India’s vital role in maintaining regional security. “India contributes to disaster relief, counter-terrorism, and maritime security, and supports freedom of navigation and adherence to international law in the South China Sea,” he added. This assertion underscores India’s commitment to a rules-based maritime order, which is particularly important given that over half of India’s trade passes through this critical area.

Maritime Security and Economic Ties

Maritime cooperation emerged as a key theme during Singh’s address. He commended ASEAN member states for agreeing to the second edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise, reiterating that “maritime security is a central focus of India-ASEAN engagement.” Singh pointed out the strategic importance of the sea lanes in the Indo-Pacific, stating, “Sea lines of communication in the Indo-Pacific are vital for regional stability and prosperity.”

Singh also reinforced India’s support for ASEAN-led initiatives aimed at establishing regional maritime interests. He stressed that any Code of Conduct in the South China Sea must respect the legitimate interests of all countries involved to ensure regional stability.

In addition to maritime security, Singh addressed the importance of inclusivity in peacekeeping operations. He highlighted India’s initiative to promote gender equality within UN peacekeeping missions. “At the first ASEAN-India Defence Ministers Meeting, an initiative was announced for Women in UN peacekeeping operations,” he explained, underscoring the belief that the deployment of women peacekeepers enhances conflict resolution and establishes a just peace.

To further this initiative, Singh proposed a second edition of the ASEAN-India Initiative for Women in UN Peacekeeping Operations, which will consist of tailor-made courses for women military officers followed by a table-top exercise focused on civilian protection.

Strengthening Institutional Collaboration

Singh called for enhanced institutional collaboration between India and ASEAN in the defence and security sectors. He proposed establishing a dedicated forum to facilitate institutional engagement among defence think tanks from both regions. “This initiative will promote dialogue, policy research collaboration, and capacity building to address evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region,” he stated.

A concept note for this proposed forum was shared during the meeting, and Singh urged ASEAN partner countries to nominate leading defence think tanks and experts for participation. He expressed confidence that this dialogue would strengthen regional cooperation and foster innovative policy-making.

In concluding his remarks, Singh invited ASEAN nations to engage in upcoming joint naval exercises to improve interoperability and maritime cooperation. He looks forward to the participation of all ASEAN member states in the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise and International Fleet Review 2026, scheduled to take place in India.

Finally, Singh expressed gratitude to Malaysia for its leadership in organizing the meeting, emphasizing the collective goals of peace, security, and progress in the Indo-Pacific region. “We will meet again soon to advance our shared goals,” he stated, reinforcing the commitment to ongoing collaboration.