NEW DELHI: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit Laos from November 20 to 22 to attend the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus). This high-level meeting brings together defence ministers from ASEAN member states, along with eight dialogue partners, including India, to discuss critical security issues in the region. The ADMM-Plus provides a platform for cooperation and dialogue on defense and security matters, helping to strengthen relationships among these nations.
During his visit, Singh is expected to participate in discussions focused on enhancing defense cooperation, particularly in addressing evolving security challenges such as terrorism, cyber threats, and hybrid warfare. India’s involvement in this meeting underscores its commitment to contributing to regional security and its broader strategic goals in Southeast Asia. The ADMM-Plus is also an opportunity to strengthen India’s defense ties with ASEAN countries and other international partners in the region.
Singh’s participation aligns with India’s “Act East” policy, aimed at deepening engagement with Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific. With security concerns growing across the region, the ADMM-Plus serves as a crucial forum for discussing collective defense strategies and addressing emerging security concerns in the context of the changing global dynamics. This forum also highlights India’s growing role as a security partner in Asia.
India’s involvement in regional defense dialogues like ADMM-Plus reinforces its geopolitical interests, as the country seeks to enhance strategic relations with Southeast Asian nations and bolster its defense preparedness. The discussions and collaborations at the summit are expected to shape the future of defense cooperation and contribute to peace and stability in the region.
