India and South Korea discuss strengthening defence ties, creating avenues for joint development
Seoul, May 20
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a meeting with South Korean Minister for Defence Acquisition Programme Administration, Lee Yong-chul in Seoul on Wednesday with both sides agreeing to make efforts to create avenues for joint development, production and exports.
"Had a fruitful meeting with the South Korean Minister for Defense Acquisition Program Administration, Mr. Lee Yong-chul in Seoul. We agreed to harness the symbiotic efforts to create avenues for Joint Development, Joint Production and Joint Exports," Singh posted on X after the meeting.
"Roadmap to unlock the potential of the ambitious KIND-X initiative to synergise the innovation ecosystems of two countries was discussed," he added.
Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Singh held a meeting with his South Korean counterpart Ahn Gyu Back in Seoul, discussing ways to further deepen the defence cooperation between two nations.
"Held an excellent meeting with my South Korean counterpart, Ahn Gyu Back in Seoul. We discussed ways to further deepen India-Republic of Korea defence, defence industry and strategic cooperation, with a shared commitment towards regional peace, stability and technological collaboration," Singh posted on X.
"It was a highly productive meeting as India and Korea exchanged Agreements on Promoting Defence Cyber Cooperation, between National Defence College of India and Korea National Defence University of RoK and UN Peacekeeping Cooperation making our partnership stronger and multidimensional. Looking forward to strengthening the special strategic partnership between our nations," he added.
Rajnath Singh also laid wreath at the National Cemetery of Korea and paid homage to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in service of their nation.
"Laid wreath at the National Cemetery of Korea and paid homage to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in service of their nation. Their courage, dedication and spirit of patriotism remain an enduring source of inspiration. India stands in solidarity with the Republic of Korea in honouring the legacy of its heroes," he stated.
Singh arrived in Seoul on Tuesday on an official visit aimed at further strengthening defence cooperation and strategic partnership between India and South Korea. He expressed confidence that his visit to South Korea will provide an opportunity to deepen bilateral ties and enhance collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally India is looking beyond traditional partners for defence cooperation. South Korea's K2 tanks and K9 howitzers are world-class. Hope this leads to actual technology transfer and not just buying finished products.
Excellent strategic alignment! India and South Korea both face security challenges from China and North Korea. Defence cyber cooperation is particularly important in today's digital warfare landscape. Very productive meeting indeed.
As long as this is not another Make in India failure where we end up assembling foreign parts. Need actual joint research and development, not just licensed production. Still, good initiative overall.
Proud to see our defence minister paying respects at the Korean National Cemetery. Shows India's respect for all soldiers who sacrifice for their nation. The joint peacekeeping cooperation is also a noble cause. 🇮🇳🇰🇷
Strategic timing with China's posturing in the South China Sea. India and South Korea are natural partners in maintaining Indo-Pacific stability. The KIND-X innovation initiative sounds promising for our startups too!
Hope this translates into real contracts and not just MOUs like many other defence deals. Our armed forces need modern equipment urgently. Let's see if South Korea offers competitive pricing unlike some Western vendors.
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