Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced his visit to Washington, where he plans to meet with his U.S. counterpart, Lloyd Austin. Singh stated that the discussions will focus on areas of strategic interest and aim to enhance defence cooperation between India and the U.S.
Taking to X, Rajnath Singh stated, “Leaving for Washington. India and the United States share a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Looking forward to meet my friend @SecDef Austin. Will discuss areas of strategic interests, while seeking to strengthen defence cooperation.”
During his visit, Singh is scheduled to meet with Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Advisor.
In a press release, the Ministry of Defence stated, “Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will be undertaking an official visit to the US from August 23 to 26, 2024, on the invitation of the US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin.”
The visit coincides with increasing momentum in India-US relations and expanding defence engagements across various levels.
“The visit is expected to further deepen and broaden the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership,” the release read.
“Rajnath Singh will also chair a high-level roundtable meeting with the US defence industry on the ongoing and future defence collaborations. He will also interact with the Indian community during the visit,” it added.
On August 17, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with US Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, Richard Verma, in Delhi to discuss the ongoing momentum in the bilateral relationship between India and the United States.
During their meeting, Jaishankar and Verma also shared perspectives on various regional and global issues. Richard Verma previously served as the 25th US Ambassador to India, having been appointed by President Obama in September 2014.
In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Pleased to meet @DepSecStateMR Richard Verma today in Delhi. Spoke about the continuing momentum in our bilateral ties. And exchanged views on certain regional and global issues.”
On July 29, during the Quad Foreign Ministers meeting in Tokyo, Jaishankar met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and noted that they engaged in a broad discussion covering regional and global issues.
Taking to X, Jaishankar said, “Great to catch up with @SecBlinken in Tokyo today. Our bilateral agenda progresses steadily. Also had a wide-ranging discussion on regional and global issues. Look forward to attending the Quad FMM tomorrow.”