US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh formalized a significant defense agreement during an ASEAN summit in Malaysia on Friday, as both nations seek to mend recently strained relations.
Hegseth and Singh both commended the accord, known as the “Framework for the US-India Major Defense Partnership,” which is designed to last for a decade.
In a social media post, Hegseth characterized the agreement as “a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence.”
He noted that the framework would enhance coordination, intelligence sharing, and technological collaboration between the two countries.
“It’s a significant step for our two militaries, a roadmap for deeper and even more meaningful collaboration ahead,” Hegseth stated to reporters following the signing.
Singh, in turn, praised the “fruitful meeting” with his American counterpart, asserting that the framework “will usher in a new era” in India-US defense relations.
He emphasized that it reflects a “growing strategic convergence” between the two nations and is vital for the Indo-Pacific region.
Prior to the meeting, both parties were also expected to review India’s plans to acquire US military hardware.
Relations between India and the US have deteriorated since former President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on certain Indian exports, contrasting sharply with the amicable rapport the two leaders shared during Trump’s initial term.
The tensions are partly attributed to India’s ongoing commitment to purchasing Russian oil, which the Trump administration claims is financing Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine.
In response to the US tariffs, India has paused its purchases of American defense equipment.
Last week, Trump asserted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi “assured” him that India would cease buying Russian oil; however, Indian officials have neither confirmed nor denied these assertions.
Despite these challenges, both leaders have attempted to mitigate tensions, with Modi recently expressing gratitude to Trump for his Diwali greetings.
The Indian prime minister further committed to enhancing cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts, while refraining from addressing the ongoing disputes regarding tariffs and oil purchases.
