Talks focus on strengthening defence ties, training, maritime security, and emerging areas of cooperation as both nations mark 60 years of diplomatic relations.
Singapore, 4 September 2025 — India and Singapore convened the 16th Defence Working Group (DWG) meeting in Singapore, reaffirming their shared commitment to deepen defence and security collaboration.
The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Amitabh Prasad, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation), Ministry of Defence, India, and Colonel Daxson Yap, Director, Policy Office, Ministry of Defence, Singapore. Both sides reviewed the progress made since the last Defence Ministers’ Dialogue and discussed ways to accelerate existing initiatives while identifying new opportunities for cooperation.
Image by Indian High Commission in Singapore
Deliberations were guided by the Joint Statement on the Roadmap for the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, issued earlier this year following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in New Delhi. Discussions centred on enhancing collaboration in training, capability building, industry and technology, as well as strengthening maritime security and participation in multinational defence engagements. The two delegations also exchanged perspectives on emerging areas of cooperation and issues concerning the global commons.
Expressing satisfaction at the progress of bilateral defence cooperation, the co-chairs agreed that the partnership should be taken to the next level, particularly as 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore. The meeting also underscored Singapore’s vital role in India’s Act East Policy, highlighting its contribution to regional security, economic engagement, and strategic connectivity across the Indo-Pacific.
On the sidelines of the Working Group, Shri Amitabh Prasad met BG Fredrick Choo, Deputy Secretary (Policy), and also visited the Information Fusion Centre and the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Cyber Security and Information Centre of Excellence at Changi Naval Base.
The successful conclusion of the 16th DWG has further reinforced the growing defence partnership between India and Singapore, with both nations committed to working closely for a secure, stable, and resilient region.
Source: Indian High Commission in Singapore
