Rajnath Singh arrives in Canberra to boost India-Australia defence, strategic ties

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Canberra on Thursday, October 9, 2025, as part of his official visit to Australia aimed at strengthening defense and strategic cooperation between the two countries.

Mr Singh was received at the airport by Australian Deputy Defense Minister Peter Khalil and Chief of Joint Operations Vice Admiral Justin Jones.

The Minister of Defense held a meeting with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Richard Marles. “We have examined the entire spectrum of India-Australia defense cooperation, including the defense industry, cyber defence, maritime security and regional challenges. We have reaffirmed the importance of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Mr Singh said in a post on X.

He also wrote: “I highlighted the rapid growth of India’s defense industry and India’s growing reputation as a reliable source of high-quality defense technology globally. We discussed the potential for deeper defense industry partnerships between India and Australia.”

A “Welcome to the country smoke” ceremony was also held at the Australian Parliament to honor and welcome Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The ceremony was part of the reconciliation process as it acknowledged traditional ownership of the land and included Aboriginal Australians in activities taking place on their traditional lands.