India-ASEAN Cooperation Essential for Peace and Stability in the Indo-Pacific, Says Rajnath Singh

New Delhi, October 14 (Daily Kiran) : Defense Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the critical need for enhanced cooperation between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during a defense forum held in New Delhi. He underscored the importance of collaboration in maritime security, defense technology, military coordination, and the defense industry. Singh asserted that India is prepared to work as a reliable and equal partner with ASEAN.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the ASEAN-India Defense Think Tanks Forum, Singh stated that both India and ASEAN share an interest in maintaining peace, stability, and prosperity in an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. He emphasized ASEAN’s central role in India’s Indo-Pacific policy, which aims to promote a multipolar cooperation framework through initiatives like ‘Act East,’ ‘Sagar,’ and ‘Maha Sagar.’

The Defense Minister reiterated India’s long-term commitment to equal partnership with Southeast Asia through its ‘Act East’ policy. He stressed the necessity for open dialogue, allowing differences to be discussed peacefully to prevent them from escalating into disputes. Singh advocated for a regional order that does not pressure any country to choose sides, enabling all nations to collaborate.

He described ASEAN-led platforms, particularly the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus), as vital for regional cooperation. Singh noted that India’s perspective on the Indo-Pacific can complement ASEAN’s vision, promoting collaboration over competition among regional forums.

The need for improved maritime information sharing, enhanced cooperation between navies and coast guards, and developing joint capabilities for emergency responses was also stressed. Singh called for collective efforts in accordance with international law to address threats such as piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing, and other maritime dangers.

He announced the declaration of 2026 as the ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation Year, viewing it as a significant opportunity to translate shared goals into tangible actions. This initiative aims to regularize discussions on maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief.

Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of learning from each other’s experiences before crises arise, sharing best practices, and strengthening cooperation for more effective emergency responses. He also pointed out the potential for increased collaboration in defense technology between India and ASEAN countries, suggesting joint research projects, shared testing facilities, and innovation initiatives.

He noted that such cooperation must ensure the security of sensitive information, respect intellectual property rights, and facilitate responsible technology transfer. The goal, he stated, should be to develop useful defense capabilities while strengthening trust among partner nations.

Singh argued that defense cooperation should extend beyond mere procurement of weapons and equipment. Instead, it should focus on joint development, production, maintenance, repairs, technological upgrades, training, and long-term technical support. These efforts can help develop local skills, boost the defense industry, and create a more reliable supply chain.

He clarified that India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative aims to enhance the country’s domestic capabilities. Rajnath Singh expressed India’s readiness to explore defense collaboration opportunities tailored to the needs and priorities of ASEAN partner countries, including patrol vessels, radar systems, air defense systems, helicopters, drones, and other technologies.

He concluded by emphasizing India’s vision for an Indo-Pacific region where all countries, regardless of size, can make their own decisions, protect their interests, and develop peacefully. The security of nations is strengthened when they collaboratively enhance their capabilities, respect international law, and build mutual trust through dialogue.