New Delhi

Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles on Monday said India and Australia are more strategically aligned than ever before, describing bilateral defence relations as being at their highest point. He made the remarks during talks with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi ahead of the second India-Australia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue.

Marles noted that defence cooperation between the two countries has become increasingly institutionalised, highlighted by the launch of an annual Defence Ministers’ Dialogue. Recalling the inaugural meeting held in Canberra in October 2025, he expressed satisfaction at continuing the engagement in New Delhi this year.

He pointed to tangible progress in defence ties, including the implementation of an information-sharing arrangement signed during the first dialogue. Marles said cooperation has expanded across several areas, such as military exercises, maritime security and defence industry collaboration.

Emphasising the growing convergence of strategic interests, he said the partnership is built on a strong foundation of mutual trust and has reached an unprecedented level in the history of bilateral relations.

Adding a lighter touch, Marles referred to the Indian Premier League final, noting that Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory reflected the close people-to-people connection between the two nations. He highlighted the contributions of Indian star Virat Kohli and Australian players Josh Hazlewood and Tim David as symbols of the strong India-Australia relationship.

The second India-Australia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue, co-chaired by Singh and Marles, will assess progress in defence cooperation and explore new areas for collaboration. Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening security ties, improving military interoperability, boosting defence industry partnerships, including co-development and co-production projects, and addressing regional and global security challenges.

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According to the Defence Ministry, Marles’ visit underscores the growing momentum of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and is expected to further deepen strategic trust and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.