India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently visited China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' meeting. His presence not only underlined India’s commitment to the SCO but also provided a platform for key bilateral engagements. Among the most significant was his meeting with Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov, which highlighted the growing strength of India-Russia strategic and defence relations.
During the SCO meeting, Rajnath Singh strongly articulated India's position on multiple security issues. He emphasized that nations that support or shelter terrorism should be strongly condemned, and the global community must remain alert and united against such forces. His statements were seen as a clear warning to countries like Pakistan and, indirectly, China, given the venue of the meeting and ongoing regional tensions. Singh's declaration that India will not hesitate to act against terror threats — even across borders — was viewed as a bold assertion of India’s national security policy on Chinese soil, carrying significant diplomatic weight.
On the sidelines of the SCO summit, Singh’s meeting with the Russian Defence Minister resulted in in-depth discussions on multiple bilateral defence projects. One of the focal points was the Indian Navy’s upcoming commissioning of INS Tamal, a warship built with Russian cooperation, scheduled for July 1. Senior officials from both countries are expected to attend the commissioning ceremony, further symbolizing the closeness of the defence partnership.
Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov expressed his satisfaction over the meeting, describing India as a strategic partner with whom Russia shares a longstanding and reliable relationship. He acknowledged India's importance in Russia's defence and technology cooperation and reaffirmed the commitment to maintaining close contact and coordination in the future.
Belousov also expressed his condolences over the tragic Air India plane accident that occurred on June 12 and requested Rajnath Singh to convey his sympathies to the bereaved families. Additionally, he thanked the Indian delegation for participating in the 80th anniversary celebrations of Russia's World War II victory, marking a key historical bond between the two nations.
News agency TASS confirmed that both ministers discussed a wide array of projects and expressed satisfaction over the depth of their cooperation. They also highlighted their shared stance on global security issues, including the threat of cross-border terrorism. This mutual understanding was evident throughout their talks, with both sides committing to enhanced collaboration across various defence sectors.
Rajnath Singh’s direct comments at the SCO summit have gained attention globally, particularly his clear stance against nations that provide safe haven to terrorists. His statement that there must be unified action against such states was not just directed at Pakistan, but also sent a message to all SCO members that India is prepared to act decisively against terrorism, regardless of geopolitical sensitivities.
The visit underscored India’s strategic assertiveness and its readiness to voice its concerns, even in platforms where adversaries are present. It also demonstrated the continued strength and importance of the India-Russia defence partnership in shaping regional and global security dynamics.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available news sources and official statements. The views expressed reflect the current diplomatic and defence developments and are for informational purposes only.
