India, NATO discuss evolving global security challenges on sidelines of Shangri-La Dialogue
Singapore, May 29
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh held a meeting with Chair of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Military Committee Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone on the sidelines of Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Friday.
During the meeting, the discussions focused on enhancing strategic dialogue and evolving global security challenges.
In a statement shared on X, Directorate of Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, stated, "Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh interacted with Chair of the NATO Military Committee Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone on the sidelines of SLD26. Discussions focused on enhancing strategic dialogue and exchanging perspectives on evolving global security challenges. The interaction reaffirmed India's commitment to constructive engagement with key multilateral defence organisations."
The Shangri-La Dialogue being held in Singapore features plenary debates led by government ministers and important opportunities for bilateral discussions among delegations. It allows decision-makers from the Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, the Middle East and beyond to gather together to discuss the most pressing regional security issues and to share policy responses.
Earlier in the day, Rajesh Kumar Singh also met US Indo-Pacific Command Commander Admiral Samuel J Paparo, with discussions focussed on strengthening military-to-military cooperation, enhancing collaboration in the Indo-Pacific and addressing emerging security challenges.
"Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh interacted with Commander, US Indo Pacific Command Admiral Samuel J Paparo on the sidelines of Shangri La Dialogue 2026 in Singapore. Discussions focused on strengthening military-to-military cooperation, enhancing collaboration in the Indo-Pacific, and addressing emerging security challenges, reaffirming the shared commitment towards deepening India-US strategic defence ties," Directorate of Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, posted on X.
On the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue, Rajesh Kumar Singh engaged with leading think tanks and academia on strengthening the Indo-Pacific security architecture, defence industrial collaboration and emerging technology partnerships.
"Addressing a distinguished gathering on 'India's Defence Diplomacy for a Stable, Secure and Inclusive Indo-Pacific', he shared India's vision for regional security and strategic engagement. High Commissioner of India to Singapore Dr Shilpak Ambule also joined the interaction," the Directorate of Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, posted on X.
On Thursday, Rajesh Kumar Singh visited the Digital Operations Technology Centre (DOTC) of the Digital and Intelligence Service of the Singapore Armed Forces. The Ministry of Defence stated that the visit provided valuable insights into Singapore's advanced digital and technical capabilities and explored avenues for collaboration with the Indian Armed Forces in niche and emerging domains of warfare.
Singh also co-chaired the 16th Defence Policy Dialogue with Permanent Secretary (Defence), Singapore Joseph Leong, with discussions focussed on defence cooperation.
In a statement shared on X, Directorate of Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, stated, "Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh co-chaired the 16th Defence Policy Dialogue with Permanent Secretary (Defence), Singapore Mr Joseph Leong. The dialogue reaffirmed the robust bilateral defence partnership between the two nations. Wide-ranging discussions were held on key areas of defence cooperation, security collaboration and avenues to further strengthen the strategic relationship between India-Singapore."
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an American living in India, I see this as a positive step. The Indo-Pacific is key for global trade and security. India's strategic location and growing military capabilities make it a natural partner. Let's hope these dialogues turn into concrete cooperation. 👏
Finally India is asserting itself on the global stage! But I hope we don't become a pawn in anyone's game. Our defence should be self-reliant, not dependent on others. Make in India for defence is the need of the hour. 🇮🇳
Nice diplomatic moves, but what about the common soldier's issues? Better equipment and training on ground matters more than these high-level talks. Still, if it leads to real tech sharing and joint exercises, it's a win for our forces.
Interesting that India is talking to NATO while also maintaining ties with Russia. That's classic Indian diplomacy - keeping all options open. But we need to be careful. Our strategic autonomy should not be compromised. No one wants to be caught between US and China.
As a Canadian, I'm impressed by India's growing role in global security forums. The Shangri-La Dialogue is important and India's presence shows its rising stature. With the digital warfare centre visit in Singapore, India is clearly looking at modernising its forces. Good move.
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