Raksha Mantri Holds Strategic Talks with Russian Counterpart at SCO Defence Meet in Qingdao

TIT Correspondent
info@impressivetimes.com

NEW DELHI, 27 JUNE: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh held a significant bilateral meeting with Russian Defence Minister Mr. Andrey Belousov on June 26, 2025, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, China. The meeting came at a crucial juncture amid evolving geopolitical challenges and growing regional security concerns, marking one of the most critical recent engagements between India and Russia.

During their discussion, the two leaders engaged in in-depth deliberations on a range of issues, including the prevailing global security environment, cross-border terrorism, and the strengthening of the long-standing Indo-Russian defence partnership. The meeting also underscored the strategic importance of enhanced collaboration in defence production and military capability-building between the two nations.

Russian Defence Minister Belousov reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to its historic ties with New Delhi, highlighting the resilience of Indo-Russian relations in the face of changing global dynamics. He also conveyed Russia’s strong condemnation of the heinous terrorist attack that occurred in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22, 2025. Expressing solidarity with India, he extended heartfelt condolences for the lives lost in what he described as a “horrendous and cowardly” act of terror.

A key focus of the meeting was the impact of Operation Sindoor, India’s recent strategic counter-terror operation, and the emerging necessity to accelerate domestic defence production in key areas. The two sides discussed avenues to enhance collaboration in critical technologies, including air defence systems, air-to-air missile capabilities, and modernization of existing air platforms.

Among the major defence-related outcomes was the reaffirmation of timely supply and deployment of the advanced S-400 air defence systems, which are crucial to India’s layered air defence architecture. Additionally, the leaders discussed the fast-tracking of Su-30 MKI fighter jet upgrades and the procurement of essential military hardware under expedited timelines.

Both Ministers emphasized the shared vision of strategic autonomy, regional stability, and mutual defence cooperation. They also reviewed the progress of ongoing defence projects and expressed interest in expanding joint research, development, and production initiatives under the Make in India framework.

The bilateral meeting in Qingdao reinforced the enduring nature of the Indo-Russian defence relationship, rooted in mutual trust and strategic alignment. As both nations navigate a complex global environment, the dialogue between Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh and Minister Belousov highlighted the shared commitment to deeper military collaboration and concerted efforts to address emerging threats.

This high-level interaction is expected to further energize Indo-Russian defence ties and contribute meaningfully to regional security under the broader framework of SCO cooperation.