In a recent interactive session at the INDUS-X Summit, Bharat’s Defence Secretary, Giridhar Aramane, emphasized Bharat’s resolute stance against China’s military assertiveness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. He characterized Bharat’s approach as standing up to a “bully” with determination, referring to the ongoing tensions with China. Aramane highlighted the importance of Bharat and the US collaborating to shape the geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific region, promoting peace, stability, and prosperity.
Aramane acknowledged the potential for encountering situations similar to the 2020 standoff with China and stressed the significance of intelligence and situational awareness, particularly aided by US equipment and support. He underscored the critical role of both countries in supporting each other in the face of common threats, emphasizing Bharat’s active presence along strategic fronts against its neighbor.
India’s Defence Secretary expressed gratitude for the support from the United States, particularly in terms of intelligence-sharing, situational awareness, and potential equipment assistance. Amid the ongoing standoff between Bharatiyas and Chinese troops in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh, Aramane emphasized the importance of continued support from allies like the US.
Addressing the summit, Aramane emphasized the pivotal role of Bharat and the US as key stakeholders in the Indo-Pacific region, bound by shared values and common interests. He highlighted the vast expanse of the Indo-Pacific, stating its significance in global commerce, geopolitics, and security, and stressed the need for navigating its complex dynamics through collaboration.
Aramane highlighted the robust defence partnership between India and the US, rooted in mutual respect and strategic convergence. He cited the launch of Initiatives on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) as a key measure to strengthen bilateral ties, aiming to establish ‘Innovation Bridges’ across key sectors.
The Defence Secretary also noted the flourishing bilateral relationship between Bharat and the US in the aerospace and defence sectors, with Bharat increasingly turning to the US for cutting-edge equipment and technology. He emphasized Bharat’s growing defence capabilities and its role as a key partner in the US Indo-Pacific strategy.
Furthermore, Aramane underscored India’s success stories in defence production, ranging from shipbuilding to the development of advanced platforms such as the Tejas multi-role fighter aircraft. He highlighted Bharat’s achievements in defence technology and production as a testament to the country’s growing capabilities and contributions to regional security.
In conclusion, Aramane reiterated India’s commitment to standing firm against external threats, particularly from China, while emphasizing the importance of collaboration with allies like the US in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
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