New Delhi, Oct 9: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today held a bilateral meeting with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles.

“Had a productive meeting with Australia’s Deputy PM & Defence Minister @RichardMarlesMP. We reviewed the full spectrum of IndiaAustralia defense cooperation, including defense industry, cyber defense, maritime security and regional challenges. We reaffirmed the importance of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” said Singh in a post on X.

“I highlighted the rapid growth of India’s defense industry and India’s growing stature as a credible source of high-quality defense tech globally. We discussed potential for deeper defense industry partnerships between India and Australia.

I thank Australia for its steadfast support on cross-border terrorism & shared regional stability. Together, we will deepen cooperation for a free, open, and resilient IndoPacific,” the Defence Minister stated.

As per the joint statement of the Australia–India Defence Ministers’ dialogue, “Ministers advanced their Prime Ministers’ long-term vision for collaboration between the two countries to enhance collective strength, contribute to both countries’ security, and make an important contribution to regional peace and security. They discussed a Joint Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap to advance maritime cooperation, and looked forward to Prime Ministers renewing and strengthening the Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation.”

“Ministers committed to expand the bilateral defence architecture and enhance consultation and cooperation by conducting an annual Defence Ministers’ Dialogue. Ministers welcomed the signing of the Australia–India Implementing Arrangement on Mutual Submarine Rescue Support and Cooperation. They welcomed progress towards operationalising the Australia–India Implementing Arrangement on Air-to-Air Refuelling signed in 2024. Ministers highlighted closer cooperation on information sharing,” it said.