India, US Seal 10-Year Defence Framework Pact

Kuala Lumpur: Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and US War Secretary Pete Hegseth met in Kuala Lumpur, where the two countries formalized a ten-year Defense Framework Agreement, a major step towards enhancing India-US strategic and defense cooperation. The agreement, signed in the presence of senior officials from both sides, creates a long-term road map focusing on military cooperation, capacity building and joint projects in the Indo-Pacific region.

Singh described the signing as the beginning of a “new chapter” in bilateral defense relations. “We had three phone conversations. It is my pleasure to meet you personally on the sidelines of ADMM-Plus. On this occasion, I feel that a new chapter will begin with the signing of the Defense Framework today. I am confident that India-US relations will further strengthen under your leadership.” said Rajnath.

Expressing his gratitude for the partnership, Hegseth described the agreement as a defining moment in the developing relationship between New Delhi and Washington: “I want to express my gratitude to Minister Singh for our partnership with India. This is one of the most important US-India relationships in the world. Our strategic alignment is built on common interests, mutual trust, and a commitment to a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” he said.

“This 10-year U.S.-India Defense Framework is ambitious. It is an important step for our two militaries, a road map for deeper and more meaningful cooperation ahead. It underscores America’s long-term commitment to our shared security and strong partnership.”

After the meeting, Singh shared on X: “This Defense Framework will provide policy direction to the entire spectrum of the India-US Defense Relationship. It is a signal of our growing strategic convergence and will herald a new decade of partnership.” This participation took place on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), where Singh was leading the Indian delegation.

The Malaysia visit also includes meetings with Defense Minister Khalid Nordin and participation in sessions focusing on regional peace and counter-terrorism efforts. India and Malaysia currently co-chair the 2024-2027 Expert Working Group on Counterterrorism, reflecting New Delhi’s growing engagement in promoting stability and cooperation within the Indo-Pacific framework.