India and the Czech Republic have agreed to expand their defence industrial cooperation, reinforcing support for the Government of India's Make In India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

During a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Czech Republic First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade Karel Havlíček reviewed the full spectrum of defence industry collaboration between the two countries.

Both leaders welcomed the steady progress achieved through existing partnerships and noted the success of several joint ventures established by Indian and Czech defence companies.

The two sides agreed to further broaden cooperation through the India-Czech Joint Defence Committee, which serves as the principal framework for strengthening defence industry ties and facilitating future collaborative projects.

In a message shared on X, Rajnath Singh stated that the discussions covered the entire range of defence industrial cooperation and highlighted the achievements of multiple joint ventures. He added that both countries had agreed to expand collaboration further under the India-Czech Joint Defence Committee to support the objectives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

The meeting placed particular emphasis on deepening defence manufacturing cooperation, with both governments expressing support for greater industrial engagement and enhanced collaboration aimed at strengthening India's domestic defence production capabilities.

The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international peace and security issues. They acknowledged the importance of closer cooperation in promoting stability and addressing emerging security challenges.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the relationship between India and the Czech Republic continues to be underpinned by longstanding historical and cultural connections, alongside shared values of mutual trust, respect and partnership.

Havlíček is undertaking a four-day visit to India, during which he is engaging with government ministries, trade representatives and business leaders. His itinerary also includes visits to industrial facilities in Bangalore and Mumbai.

The discussions form part of broader efforts by both nations to expand defence industry cooperation, encourage technology partnerships, promote joint manufacturing opportunities and strengthen long-term strategic engagement through the India-Czech Joint Defence Committee.

ANI