Rajnath Offers India’s Defence Expertise to ASEAN
India is prepared to share its operational experience in combating terrorism with ASEAN countries and their defence partners, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday, October 29, 2026. Addressing the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines, Singh highlighted India’s experience in tackling cross-border terrorism and strengthening maritime security across the Indo-Pacific.
Rajnath Singh Offers India’s Counter-Terrorism Expertise
Singh said India’s counter-terrorism capabilities had developed through decades of practical security operations rather than theoretical training. He offered to expand cooperation through joint military exercises, intelligence sharing and capacity-building programmes.
The minister cited Operation Sindoor as an example of India’s approach towards cross-border terrorism, stating that the operation had demonstrated New Delhi’s resolve against terrorist infrastructure.
India and Malaysia currently co-chair the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Counter-Terrorism for the 2024–2027 period.
India Highlights Maritime Security Role in Indo-Pacific
Singh emphasised India’s commitment to maintaining secure international shipping routes and freedom of navigation.
He highlighted the Indian Navy’s continuous deployment in the Gulf of Aden since 2008, including operations protecting merchant vessels from piracy and maritime threats.
The minister reaffirmed India’s support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, stressing that maritime security cooperation was not directed against any particular country.
He also highlighted the second ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise conducted during 2026.
India Proposes Defence Youth Bridge With ASEAN
Singh proposed establishing a dedicated defence Youth Bridge to strengthen cooperation between young professionals in India and ASEAN countries.
The initiative would focus on institutional exchanges, digital innovation and defence capacity development.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Singh engaged with Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles.
He reiterated India’s commitment to ASEAN centrality and a rules-based Indo-Pacific, describing regional defence cooperation as essential for long-term stability.
