The engagements highlighted New Delhi’s growing emphasis on expanding strategic partnerships and enhancing collaboration with key international stakeholders across defence and security domains.
During his meeting with Dutch Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgoz-Zegerius, Singh discussed measures to enhance bilateral defence cooperation. The talks focused on strengthening military-to-military relations and exploring opportunities for defence industrial collaboration, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between India and the Netherlands. According to the Ministry of Defence, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening defence engagement and broadening cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Singh also held bilateral discussions with Australian Defence Secretary Meghan Quinn. The two sides reviewed progress under the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and assessed forthcoming high-level engagements. Discussions further explored avenues to strengthen defence cooperation in sectors aligned with shared strategic priorities, underscoring the expanding security relationship between the two nations.
India and the European Union advanced their strategic engagement in defence and security through separate high-level discussions held on the sidelines of the dialogue. Singh met Secretary General of the European External Action Service Belen Martinez Carbonell and Deputy Chair of the European Union Military Committee Lieutenant General Enrico Barduani. The discussions focused on shared security interests and opportunities to deepen defence and strategic cooperation, further advancing the strategic dialogue between India and the European Union.
Earlier on Saturday, the Defence Secretary paid tribute at the Kranji War Memorial in Singapore, laying a wreath in honour of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the World Wars. The Ministry of Defence stated that the gesture symbolised the close relationship between India and Singapore in commemorating their shared historical legacy.
On Friday, Singh also held talks with Canada’s Senior Associate Deputy Minister of National Defence, Kelvin Brosseau, on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue 2026. The discussions focused on strengthening India-Canada defence cooperation and identifying opportunities for deeper collaboration across key domains. Both sides explored ways to expand engagement in areas reflecting the growing convergence of strategic interests between the two countries.
The series of high-level meetings at the Shangri-La Dialogue underscores India’s sustained efforts to strengthen defence partnerships, expand strategic cooperation and enhance military collaboration with major global partners. The engagements reaffirm New Delhi’s commitment to building stronger security relationships and advancing defence cooperation across multiple regions amid an evolving global strategic landscape.
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