Australia sees India 'top security partner' as Defence Minister heads for New Delhi

Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles is set to visit New Delhi for the second Australia-India Defence Ministers' Dialogue, a key event underscoring the deepening security ties between the two nations. This visit follows unprecedented progress in their bilateral defense partnership, with both countries sharing an ambition to bolster cooperation.

Before heading to India, Marles will attend the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, a significant regional security forum. There, he is scheduled to address maritime security issues during a plenary session on Asia's Maritime Security Disorder and engage with various defense counterparts.

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We remain committed to deepening diplomatic and defence relationships to strengthen cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.

Marles emphasized the strong relationship between Australia and India, stating, "Australia and India are top-tier security partners." He expressed his eagerness to meet with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to further strengthen their defense partnership, building on the progress made during Singh's visit to Australia last year. The inaugural dialogue in October 2025 marked a significant step, reflecting the ministers' commitment to enhancing collective strength and contributing to regional peace and security.

The dialogue between the two nations aims to advance their Prime Ministers' long-term vision for collaboration. This partnership is designed to enhance their collective strength, contribute to each country's security, and play a vital role in maintaining regional peace and security.

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Australia and India are top-tier security partners. I look forward meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to further strengthen our defence partnership following the strong progress we made during his visit to Australia last year.