By Chaitali Bag
India has consistently demonstrated its commitment to fostering international collaborations and strengthening diplomatic ties, particularly in defence and security. At the Aero India 2025 event, this commitment was exemplified by the proactive engagement of General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Indian Army, with military leaders from Algeria, Tanzania, Maldives, and Belarus. These discussions mark a significant step in bolstering global military diplomacy and underline India’s commitment to fostering peace, stability, and mutual growth through international defence cooperation.
General Dwivedi’s discussions on the sidelines of the Aero India show focused on deepening bilateral relations, exchange of defence expertise, and exploring new avenues for strategic partnerships with the participating nations. The dialogue revolved around critical aspects of defence collaboration, including joint military exercises, advancements in technology, and capacity-building in training. By addressing a wide array of security and defence challenges, these interactions reflected India’s comprehensive approach to cultivating strong and enduring ties with its global military counterparts.
Adding to the robust diplomatic engagement, Lieutenant General N.S. Raja Subramani, Vice Chief of the Army Staff, also conducted meaningful discussions with senior military officials from Nepal, the United Kingdom, and Israel. These talks further reinforced the dynamic nature of India’s military diplomacy by addressing shared security concerns and laying the groundwork for deeper partnerships, particularly in the domains of training, technology transfer, and operational cooperation.
Aero India has established itself as a crucial platform in India’s defence diplomacy efforts. The event serves as a conduit for addressing critical defence issues and initiating collaborative solutions for global and regional security. This year’s event saw a renewed emphasis on military-to-military connections, brought to life through General Dwivedi’s high-impact interactions, which underscored the Indian Army’s resolve to be an active and constructive participant in global defence dialogue. By actively participating in such exchanges, the Indian Army is strengthening partnerships and establishing itself as a thought leader and pivotal player in global security architecture.
These engagements also reflect India’s broader vision of being a promoter of peace and stability on the global stage. The Indian Army’s collaboration with like-minded countries showcases its willingness to share its decades-long experience in modernizing its military capabilities, paving the way for mutual benefits. Such initiatives amplify India’s role as a responsible global power, emphasizing its ability to contribute meaningfully to international efforts in maintaining peace, security, and stability.
General Dwivedi’s and Lieutenant General Raja Subramani’s discussions at Aero India embody India’s proactive diplomatic approach and the increasing relevance of the Indian armed forces on the world stage. These interactions pave the way for mutually enriching partnerships that transcend defence cooperation, fostering trust and solidarity with nations around the world.
Indian Army, guided by its vision of global peace and collaboration, continues to expand its international footprint through military diplomacy. Aero India 2025 once again highlighted India’s dedication to forging meaningful alliances, building trust, and promoting global security. By leveraging platforms like Aero India, the Indian Army reaffirms its role as a key enabler of international defence partnerships while simultaneously strengthening its strategic capabilities for a safer and more harmonious world.
