In a landmark development, Bharat’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, embarked on an official visit to Great Britain, marking the first such visit by a sitting Bharat Defence Minister to the UK in over two decades. The visit held special significance, highlighting the growing strategic relationship between the two nations.
Earlier this week, Singh and his British counterpart, Grant Shapps, participated in the Bharat-UK Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable at Trinity House in London. This roundtable discussion served as a platform to strengthen ties and explore collaboration between the defence industries of both countries.
A major announcement during the visit was the UK’s plan to deploy its Littoral Response Group to the Indian Ocean Region later this year. Additionally, a proposal was made for the Carrier Strike Group to visit Indian waters in 2025, fostering joint operations and training exercises with Indian forces.
The Defence Ministers of Bharat and the UK discussed unprecedented levels of defence cooperation, focusing on joint exercises, knowledge sharing, and instructor exchanges. This collaboration aligns with the 2030 Bharat-UK roadmap, emphasizing a comprehensive strategic partnership envisioned in 2021.
Defence Secretary Shapps expressed the importance of the strategic relationship, emphasizing shared security challenges and commitment to a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific. The leaders agreed to undertake more complex military exercises, leading up to a significant joint exercise before the end of 2030. These efforts aim to protect critical trade routes and uphold the international rules-based system.
The collaboration extends to the defence industry, with both nations working together on electric propulsion systems for future fleets and the development of complex weapons. Several new joint initiatives were confirmed, including a Letter of Arrangement focusing on research and development for next-generation capabilities.
The UK and Bharat solidified an agreement on logistics exchange, enabling logistic support, supplies, and services between the armed forces of both nations. This agreement covers joint training, exercises, authorized port visits, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
In a cultural gesture, Defence Minister Singh visited the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple (Neasden Temple) in London, Europe’s first authentic Hindu shrine. Singh’s participation in the Abishek Puja at the temple underscored the significance of cultural connections in enhancing bilateral relations.
As both nations express their desire for strong strategic relations, the visit lays a foundation for a strengthened and enduring partnership between India and the UK, fostering cooperation in defence, security, and cultural spheres.
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