Singapore — The 16th India-Singapore Defence Working Group (DWG) meeting was held in Singapore on 4 September 2025. 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, the meeting marked a significant step in advancing the multifaceted defence partnership between the two nations.
Review and Progress on Bilateral Defence Initiatives
The meeting reviewed the implementation status of decisions taken during the last Defence Ministers’ Dialogue and assessed various ongoing bilateral defence cooperation initiatives. It provided a platform to exchange perspectives on regional security and accelerated the momentum of initiatives covering training, capability building, defence industry & technology collaboration, maritime security, and multinational defence cooperation.
Alignment with Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Roadmap
Guided by the Joint Statement on the Roadmap for the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership issued after the Prime Ministerial visit of Shri Narendra Modi to Singapore, the meeting underscored efforts to deepen cooperation in established and emerging areas of defence and security. Key topics included quantum computing, AI, automation, unmanned vessels, maritime domain awareness, and counterterrorism.
Celebrating Six Decades of Diplomatic Relations
The year 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of India-Singapore diplomatic ties. Both sides agreed to further elevate defence cooperation in alignment with India’s Act East policy, recognizing Singapore’s vital role in regional economic cooperation, cultural ties, and strategic connectivity.
Enhanced Institutional Engagements
On the meeting’s sidelines, Shri Amitabh Prasad met with Deputy Secretary Policy, BG Fredrick Choo. He also visited the Information Fusion Centre and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Cyber Security and Information Centre of Excellence at Changi Naval Base, highlighting ongoing collaboration in cybersecurity and information sharing.
Conclusion
The 16th Defence Working Group meeting reaffirmed the robust strategic partnership between India-Singapore, opening avenues for deeper defence cooperation and regional peacebuilding. It reflects the mutual commitment to shared values, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
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Source: PIB
