Jaishankar discusses maritime security with U.S. Indo-Pacific commander

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, focusing on strengthening bilateral defence collaboration and maritime security initiatives in South and Southeast Asia.

Admiral Paparo is on a five-day visit to India, during which he is engaging with senior Indian defence and foreign policy officials to explore avenues for enhanced military coordination. The meetings underscore the strategic importance both nations place on maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.

The discussions between Jaishankar and the U.S. commander reflected India's commitment to advancing its defence partnership with Washington. Maritime security emerged as a key area of focus, with both sides examining ways to bolster operational cooperation and information sharing in critical sea lanes.

The engagement is part of broader efforts to reinforce the India-U.S. defence relationship, which has expanded significantly in recent years through joint military exercises, defence technology collaboration, and strategic dialogue platforms. The Indo-Pacific region, through which vital global trade routes pass, remains central to both nations' strategic outlook.