Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on Friday (May 29, 2026) held a series of high-level bilateral engagements on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue 2026 in Singapore, focusing on strengthening defence partnerships, maritime security cooperation and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

During his interaction with the Chief of Defence Forces of the Seychelles Armed Forces, Major General Micheal Rosette, both sides discussed avenues to deepen bilateral defence cooperation and enhance maritime security collaboration in the Indian Ocean Region. The meeting reaffirmed India’s commitment to advancing peace, security and stability with its trusted regional partners.

The Defence Secretary also met Canada’s Senior Associate Deputy Minister of National Defence, Kelvin Brosseau. The discussions centred on expanding India-Canada defence cooperation and exploring new opportunities for collaboration across key strategic domains, reflecting the growing convergence of interests between the two countries.

In a separate meeting with Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Mr. Singh reviewed measures to strengthen military-to-military cooperation, enhance collaboration in the Indo-Pacific and address emerging security challenges. Both sides reiterated their commitment to further deepening India-U.S. strategic defence ties.

Mr. Singh also interacted with Chair of the NATO Military Committee Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone on evolving global security challenges, underlining India’s commitment to constructive engagement with major multilateral defence organisations.

On the sidelines of the dialogue, the Defence Secretary engaged with leading think tanks and academic institutions on issues related to Indo-Pacific security architecture, defence industrial cooperation and emerging technologies.

Addressing a gathering on the theme “India’s Defence Diplomacy for a Stable, Secure and Inclusive Indo-Pacific,” he outlined India’s vision for regional security and strategic engagement. India’s High Commissioner to Singapore, Dr. Shilpak Ambule, also participated in the interaction.

The engagements highlighted India’s growing defence diplomacy outreach and its emphasis on fostering partnerships to ensure a free, open, secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.