India-US Forge New Era of Strategic Defense Alliance

India and the United States marked a significant milestone in their diplomatic relations by signing a 10-year defense framework pact. This agreement, seen as a 'signal' of growing strategic ties by India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, is poised to bolster the nations' collaborative efforts in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

The pact, signed by Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth after discussions in Kuala Lumpur, comes as both countries work to mend ties strained by US tariffs on Indian goods. The new framework builds on the 2015 agreement and promises a broader vision to deepen bilateral defense cooperation.

Describing the talks as 'fruitful', Singh highlighted the framework's role in guiding the entire spectrum of India-US defense relations. Hegseth echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the partnership advances regional stability and enhances coordination, information sharing, and technological cooperation.