Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that India views its defence cooperation with ASEAN and Plus countries as a contribution to regional peace, stability, and capacity-building. Mr. Singh was speaking at the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He emphasised that the ADMM-Plus is an integral part of India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and its broader Indo-Pacific vision.
The Defence Minister also highlighted that India’s Indo-Pacific security vision connects defence cooperation with economic development, technology sharing, and human resource advancement. He added that the strong connection between security, growth, and sustainability reflects the true spirit of the partnership between India and ASEAN. Mr. Singh reiterated that India’s approach has always been clear: an open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
The Defence Minister highlighted that as the ADMM-Plus enters its 16th year, India is ready to enhance cooperation in all areas of mutual interest, promote dialogue, and ensure peace and stability through robust regional mechanisms. He further emphasized that India is committed to making constructive contributions under the spirit of “Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth across Regions (MAHASAGAR)” through dialogue, partnership, and practical cooperation.
He also noted that India has consistently advocated for integrating climate resilience into defence cooperation. Mr. Singh pointed out that the link between environmental stress, resource scarcity, and conflict makes this an essential component of the regional security agenda. He stated that the ADMM-Plus has helped align India’s initiatives with ASEAN’s strategic outlook, ensuring that India’s engagements are not competitive, but complementary.
The ADMM serves as the highest defence consultative and cooperative body within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The Defence Minister yesterday took part in the 2nd ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting. Mr Singh reached Kuala Lumpur on Thursday on a visit to Malaysia.
