Singapore

India underlined its commitment to a stable, secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific through a series of high-level engagements at the Shangri-La Dialogue 2026 in Singapore.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh interacted with leading think tanks and academic institutions on issues related to Indo-Pacific security architecture, defence industrial cooperation and emerging technology partnerships.

Addressing a gathering on the theme “India’s Defence Diplomacy for a Stable, Secure and Inclusive Indo-Pacific”, Singh outlined India’s approach towards regional security and strategic engagement. Indian High Commissioner to Singapore Shilpak Ambule was also present during the interaction.

On the sidelines of the dialogue, Singh also held discussions with Admiral Samuel J Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM). The talks focused on expanding military-to-military cooperation, boosting collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region and addressing emerging security challenges, reaffirming the growing India-US strategic defence partnership.

India also engaged with NATO leadership during the event. Singh met Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, and exchanged views on evolving regional and global security concerns. The interaction reflected India’s continued engagement with major multilateral defence organisations.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth arrived in Singapore to participate in the Shangri-La Dialogue, one of the region’s leading defence and security forums. According to the US Department of War, this marks Hegseth’s fourth visit to the Indo-Pacific region.

During his visit, Hegseth is expected to hold meetings with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing, besides participating in bilateral and multilateral engagements with regional allies and partners. He is also scheduled to deliver keynote remarks outlining Washington’s strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific.

Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles is also attending the summit ahead of his India visit. He is expected to participate in discussions on maritime security and hold meetings with defence counterparts from across the region.

Organised annually by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the Shangri-La Dialogue is considered Asia’s premier defence and security summit. The forum brings together defence ministers, military officials, policymakers and experts from across the world to deliberate on regional and global security issues.

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The 2026 edition of the summit is being held in Singapore from May 29 to 31.