Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Hails Strengthening India-US Ties During Official US Visit

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during his official visit to the US, expressed optimism about India-US relations, predicting strong future partnerships. Addressing the Indian diaspora, he highlighted India's economic achievements and resilience during the Covid pandemic. Singh is set to meet US defence officials to discuss furthering strategic ties.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the growth in India-US relations, asserting that New Delhi and Washington are 'destined' to be strong partners. Singh is visiting the US from August 23 to 26 at the behest of US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin. He arrived in Washington on Thursday.

'India and the US are natural allies with deep historical ties. Destiny favors strong India-US relations,' Singh stated while addressing the Indian community in Washington. He highlighted that ever since Columbus met the Native Americans, destiny has favored India-US ties, which continue to strengthen. Singh emphasized that only joint efforts by India and the US can ensure global peace, prosperity, and stability.

Singh also discussed India's economic milestones over the past decade, noting that 25 crore Indians have risen out of poverty. He forecasted that India will be the world's third-largest economy by 2027. 'Previously, India's economy was categorized among the 'Fragile 5'; today, it is part of the 'Stimulus 5'. According to Morgan Stanley, India is on track to be among the top 3 global economies by 2027,' Singh remarked.

He praised India's handling of the Covid pandemic, asserting it had minimal economic impact. 'With strong leadership during the pandemic, our economy remained resilient. Over the past decade, we have lifted 25 crore citizens out of poverty, and we aim to eradicate poverty entirely in the coming years,' Singh said.

The Defence Minister highlighted India's advancements in easing business regulations, growing the start-up ecosystem to over 120,000 from a mere 400-500, and leading in digital transactions, accounting for 46 percent of global digital payments. 'India is also the world's second-largest mobile phone exporter,' he added.

Singh's visit seeks to elevate India-US defence ties through meetings with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. The Ministry of Defence noted the visit aims to deepen the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US.

(With inputs from agencies.)