Singapore

India and the United States on Friday reiterated their commitment to enhancing defence and security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region during high-level discussions held on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue 2026 in Singapore.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh held talks with Admiral Samuel J Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), focusing on expanding military-to-military ties and strengthening strategic collaboration in the Indo-Pacific.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the discussions centred on enhancing operational cooperation, addressing emerging security challenges and reinforcing the growing India-US strategic defence partnership.

The ministry, in a post on X, said the interaction reaffirmed the shared commitment of both countries towards deepening defence ties and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

India also engaged with the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, during the Singapore dialogue.

The meeting focused on evolving regional and global security issues, with both sides exchanging views on strategic challenges and defence cooperation.

The Ministry of Defence said the interaction highlighted India’s commitment to constructive engagement with key multilateral defence organisations and strengthening strategic dialogue on international security matters.

Earlier in the day, Singh also interacted with representatives from leading think tanks and academic institutions to discuss India’s vision for a stable, secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

Addressing a distinguished gathering on “India’s Defence Diplomacy for a Stable, Secure and Inclusive Indo-Pacific”, the Defence Secretary outlined India’s strategic priorities, including defence industrial cooperation and partnerships in emerging technologies.

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The event was also attended by India’s High Commissioner to Singapore, Shilpak Ambule, underlining the diplomatic significance of the engagements.