Rajnath Singh Arrives in Washington, Highlights India-US Partnership for Global Peace and Prosperity
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh arrived in Washington on a four-day visit to the US, emphasizing the significance of the India-US partnership in ensuring global peace, prosperity, and stability. Addressing the Indian diaspora, Singh described India and the US as natural allies, destined to be strong partners, with a growing collaboration.
Singh highlighted India’s growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, citing the country’s increased stature on the global stage and its emergence as one of the ‘Fabulous Five’ economies. He noted the government’s successful response to the COVID-19 pandemic, poverty reduction efforts, and economic achievements, including low retail inflation and high foreign exchange reserves.
The Raksha Mantri discussed steps towards ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defense, including the notification of Positive Indigenisation Lists and efforts to promote innovation. He acknowledged the significant rise in defense exports and the growth of start-ups in the country.
During his visit, Singh will hold bilateral meetings with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and US Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs Jake Sullivan. He will also chair a high-level round-table meeting with the US defense industry to discuss ongoing and future collaborations.
Two major agreements were signed coinciding with Singh’s arrival: the Security of Supplies Arrangement (SOSA) and the Memorandum of Agreement regarding the Assignment of Liaison Officers. The visit aims to further deepen and broaden the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
