Pentagon Highlights India’s Strategic Importance Amid Upcoming Defense Talks

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will host Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh at the Pentagon on August 23. This meeting emphasizes the significance of the U.S.-India relationship, especially in the context of the Indo-Pacific region, as stated by Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh during a news conference.

The two leaders are expected to discuss various bilateral and regional matters, as well as explore ways to strengthen ties between the two largest democracies.

While specifics of the meeting were not disclosed, Sabrina Singh assured that a detailed readout would be provided afterward. She highlighted the strong military partnership between the U.S. and India, noting that both countries share a deep commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific, with a particular focus on countering China’s influence.

Rajnath Singh’s visit marks his first official trip to the U.S. since Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his third term in June. This visit underscores the ongoing collaboration between the two nations in defense and strategic matters.