In a significant development highlighting the growing partnership between India and the United Kingdom in the realm of defence and security, Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, engaged in a telephonic conversation with the UK Secretary of State for Defence, Grant Shapps, on November 13, 2023. The conversation saw both leaders discussing a wide range of defence and security issues, with particular emphasis on the Indo-Pacific region. They also explored avenues for deeper cooperation in emerging domains.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh shared insights into the conversation, stating, “Had a telephonic conversation with the UK Secretary of State for Defence Mr. Grant Shapps. We discussed a range of defence and security-related issues with particular emphasis on the Indo-Pacific.”
The discussion between the two Defence Ministers delved into the ongoing engagements and possibilities for further collaboration. Shapps extended an invitation to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to visit the United Kingdom in the near future, highlighting the desire to bolster defence relations between the two nations.
In response, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also congratulated Shapps on his appointment as the Secretary of State for Defence, reinforcing the friendly and constructive nature of India-UK ties in the field of defence.
It is pertinent to note that, this telephonic conversation holds particular significance as it closely follows a meeting between India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, who is currently on a visit to the UK, and the UK Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps. The meeting between the two ministers focused on enhancing defence and security cooperation between the two nations. Dr. Jaishankar emphasized the potential offered by India’s “Make in India” initiative, which presents new opportunities for British partners.
The discussion also encompassed an exchange of perspectives on global security challenges and highlighted the convergences in approach between India and the UK in addressing these challenges.
“A good interaction with UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps this afternoon. Discussed enhancing defence and security cooperation between our two countries. #MakeinIndia offers new opportunities for our British partners. Also shared perspectives on the global security challenges and the convergences in our approach,” EAM said.
