Rajnath Singh holds meeting with Japanese Defence Minister Nakatani and Philippines Defence Secretary in Laos

In Laos, Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and Japanese Defense Minister General Nakatani.

“Had a very good meeting with the defense minister of Japan, General Nikatani, in Vientiane, Lao PDR,” said Defense Minister Rajnath Singh in a post on X.

Singh said that the India-Japan alliance would “play a significant role in ensuring free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region” and that he is confident in it.

Following EAM Jaishankar’s comments during the 7th India-Japan Indo-Pacific Forum, the meeting was held.
“The India-Japan Special Strategic Global Partnership promotes regional peace, international stability, and global prosperity,” Jaishankar had said. It is a mutually beneficial connection with increasing depth and trust.

Our mutual support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), our Indo-Pacific vision of SAGAR, Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision, and India’s Act-East Policy all serve as the foundation for our convergences. Our strategic alliance will advance as we develop new areas of cooperation and broaden our shared interests.”

While attending the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus forum in Vientiane, Laos, the Indian and Japanese defense ministers meet.

While in Laos, Rajnath Singh also spoke with the Philippine Defense Secretary.
He wrote in X, “Had an excellent meeting with the Defence Secretary of Philippines, Mr. Gilberto Teodoro” .

“The Philippines is a key partner in our Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision,” Singh said. India is steadfast in its resolve to deepen and broaden defense cooperation with the Philippines.

The encounter gained significance since it took place only days after India and the Philippines celebrated their 75-year diplomatic relationship anniversary on November 14.

EAM Jaishankar made remarks on the advancement of the two nations’ defense and security cooperation at the event. “Our common interests and convergences in the Indo-Pacific have helped to strengthen our ties,” he had said. The bond between India and the Philippines is really timeless and is about to take a new turn.

Rajnath Singh, the minister of defense, was in Vientiane, Laos, on Thursday for the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM).

Singh emphasized at the conference India’s strong belief in constructive engagement among countries to develop real, long-term solutions to global challenges and India’s commitment to dialogue in addressing difficult issues.

“In the context of promoting peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, India stands for freedom of navigation and overflight, unimpeded lawful commerce, and adherence to international law,” the defense minister stated, restating India’s commitment to this goal.

Singh had a number of bilateral meetings outside the conference. These include, among other things, meetings with his colleagues in Australia, South Korea, and the United States.

He also spoke at a gathering for the Indian community, highlighting the advancements India has achieved recently in a number of areas. He focused on the government’s pledge to complete India’s development by 2047.