India and Australia signed a series of key defence agreements to strengthen defence and strategic cooperation between the two countries, in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Australian counterpart, Richard Marles.

 

Rajnath Singh also held a meeting with Deputy PM Marles, along with senior defence officials from both sides, at the Parliament House in Canberra. The meeting was also joined by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Rajnath Singh stated that both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of India-Australia defence cooperation, including collaboration in the defence industry, cyber defence, maritime security, and regional challenges, while reaffirming the importance of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. 

He thanked Australia for its steadfast support in combating cross-border terrorism and promoting shared regional stability. “Together, we will deepen cooperation for a free, open, and resilient Indo-Pacific,” he said. 

Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said, “The significance of today lies in the deep trust and strategic alignment between our nations, which is now being translated into a much deeper operational level of engagement between our two defence forces. The agreement we have signed regarding staff talks between our operational commands is hugely significant.” 

In a post on X, Rajnath Singh wrote, “Had a productive meeting with Australia’s Deputy PM & Defence Minister Richard Marles. We reviewed the full spectrum of India-Australia defence cooperation, including the defence industry, cyber defence, maritime security, and regional challenges. We reaffirmed the importance of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.” 
“I highlighted the rapid growth of India’s defence industry and India’s growing stature as a credible source of high-quality defence technology globally. We discussed the potential for deeper defence industry partnerships between India and Australia. I thank Australia for its steadfast support on cross-border terrorism and shared regional stability. Together, we will deepen cooperation for a free, open, and resilient Indo-Pacific,” Singh added. 
His visit reflects the growing momentum in bilateral ties and the shared commitment of both nations to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.

Upon his arrival at Canberra airport, Rajnath Singh was warmly received by Australia’s Assistant Minister of Defence, Peter Khalil, and Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Chief of Joint Operations. 
A traditional 'Welcome to Country' smoke ceremony was also held in his honour—a symbolic Aboriginal Australian ritual that acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land and signifies friendship and reconciliation. 

The two leaders appreciated the rapid growth in India-Australia defence cooperation and described the talks as productive, forward-looking, and focused on expanding strategic coordination.

 

 

000