Our Bureau
Singapore
Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin while attending the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore, said that the US-India ties are based on a common vision and values and the momentum in the relationship is not only going to continue but will pick up speed. Austin’s remarks came as he responded to a delegate’s question at the Dialogue, which is held annually in Singapore, and is Asia’s premier defence summit.
“We are co-producing armoured vehicles with India, he said, adding that good progress has been made on the project. The relationship we enjoy right now with India is as good as or better than our relationship that it has ever been,” he told delegates.
In his address on the Indo-Pacific region, Austin said, “Together with our friends in the region, we are breaking down national barriers and better integrating our defence industry.” America will continue to play a vital role in the Indo-Pacific, he assured.
The Indo-Pacific comprises the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean, including the South China Sea.
Lloyd Austin is a retired United States Army four-star general who has served as the 28th and current United States secretary of defense since 2021. Before retiring from the military in 2016, Austin served as the 12th commander of United States Central Command, beginning in March 2013.
