Rajnath Singh at 12th ASEAN Defence Meeting

Rajnath Singh Attends 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus in Malaysia

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on October 30, 2025, for a two-day visit to attend the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus). The meeting will be held on November 1, bringing together defence ministers from ASEAN nations and their eight dialogue partners, including India, the US, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.

Purpose of the Visit

On his arrival at Subang Airbase, Rajnath Singh was received by B. N. Reddy, India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia. During the visit, he will address the forum on the theme “Reflection on 15 Years of ADMM-Plus and Charting the Way Forward.”

On the sidelines, he will also participate in the 2nd ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and advancing India’s Act East Policy. Singh is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with counterparts from Malaysia and other key partners to discuss regional security issues.

About ADMM-Plus

The ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) is a vital regional security forum established in 2010 in Hanoi, Vietnam. It brings together 10 ASEAN members and 8 dialogue partners to foster cooperation on defence, maritime security, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and disaster relief.

India plays an active role in the forum and currently serves as co-chair (with Malaysia) of the Experts’ Working Group on Counter-Terrorism (2024–2027), emphasizing joint efforts to counter regional threats.

India’s Strategic Focus

Rajnath Singh’s participation underscores India’s commitment to building stronger ties with ASEAN and ensuring a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. The visit aligns with India’s Act East Policy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.

The meeting provides India an opportunity to enhance collaboration in maritime security, defence technology, information exchange, and military training. It also allows dialogue on global issues such as terrorism, cyber threats, and the stability of the South China Sea.

Exam Highlights

• Event: 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus)
• Venue: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Date: November 1, 2025
• Theme: Reflection on 15 Years of ADMM-Plus
• Key Participant: Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister of India
• India’s Policy Link: Act East Policy and SAGAR
• Co-chair Role: Counter-Terrorism Working Group (2024-27)

In Summary:

Rajnath Singh’s visit reinforces India’s growing role in regional security cooperation, defence diplomacy, and multilateral engagement with ASEAN countries — marking 15 years of ADMM-Plus collaboration in shaping a secure and stable Indo-Pacific.