New Delhi- Singapore's Defence Minister, Dr. Ng Eng Hen, arrived in New Delhi for a three-day visit, co-chairing the sixth India-Singapore Defence Ministers' Dialogue with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting began with a warm welcome, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.

Rajnath Singh highlighted Singapore’s pivotal role in India's Act East Policy, emphasizing its contributions to economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and strategic connectivity. “This meeting marks a decade of the Act East Policy, and Singapore has been central to its success,” Singh stated.

Dr. Ng Eng Hen recalled the historical defence ties between the two countries, underscoring how India had supported Singapore’s armed forces in their early years. He expressed satisfaction with the deepening relationship, noting improvements in both defence and strategic partnerships over the past decade.

Hen also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his earlier visit to Singapore, describing it as a productive engagement.

The Ministry of Defence had announced the dialogue, which began on October 22, 2024. This year's talks build on a foundation of military exchanges, joint exercises, ship visits, capacity-building programs, and cooperation in UN Peacekeeping efforts. Since its inception in 2016, the Defence Ministers' Dialogue has been a crucial platform for advancing defence cooperation.

The fifth edition of the dialogue, held virtually in January 2021, laid the groundwork for the current in-person meeting. Both sides are optimistic that the discussions will further enhance bilateral ties and promote regional security.