Defence and Foreign Ministers from India and Australia Hold Key Talks in New Delhi

HIGHLIGHTS:

India and Australia to Convene Second Two Plus Two Dialogue Strengthening Strategic Partnership

Rajnath Singh and S Jaishankar Meet with Australian Counterparts for Defence and Foreign Ministerial Dialogue

India-Australia Collaboration Deepens with Second Two Plus Two Dialogue in New Delhi

Bilateral Cooperation in Focus as India and Australia Discuss Defence and Security Issues

New Delhi: The second two plus two Defence and Foreign Ministerial Dialogue between India and Australia is scheduled to take place in New Delhi. This important meeting will be attended by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, India’s Defence Minister, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong.

The primary objective of this dialogue is to engage in discussions regarding various strategic, defence, and security issues of mutual concern. The agenda of the meeting will cover a wide range of topics, including bilateral, regional, and global matters. The purpose is to further enhance the cooperation and advancements achieved under the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

In addition to the group discussions, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh is also scheduled to have a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart. This meeting holds particular significance as it will be a revisit by the Australian Defence Minister since his last visit to India in June last year, shortly after assuming office.

Furthermore, on the 21st of November, Dr. Jaishankar and his Australian counterpart will participate in the 14th Foreign Ministerial Framework Dialogue. This meeting will serve as an opportunity to assess the progress made under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and exchange perspectives on various regional and global issues of shared interest.

It is worth mentioning that the first India-Australia two plus two Ministerial Dialogue took place on 11th September 2021, highlighting the ongoing commitment of both nations to strengthen their bilateral relationship in various areas of mutual concern.