India and Italy have formalised a significant defence agreement aimed at bolstering their military collaboration. The pact, resulting from extensive discussions between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Italian counterpart Guido Crosetto in Rome, marks a milestone in their defence ties. During their meeting, both ministers emphasised defence-industrial cooperation, paving the way for joint ventures, co-development, and co-production of military platforms. The accord spans multiple defence domains, including security and defence policy, research and development, military education, maritime domain awareness, and the exchange of defence information. This agreement is particularly noteworthy as it comes nearly two years after the lifting of the ban on AgustaWestland and its parent company, Leonardo SpA, which had been imposed due to corruption allegations in a VVIP helicopters deal worth Rs 3,500 crore in 2014.

Singh's visit to Italy, the initial stop on his two-nation tour, showcased discussions on diverse defence cooperation aspects such as training, information sharing, naval exercises, and maritime security. The Indian Defence Minister also engaged with top executives from 24 Italian defence companies, stressing the need for Indian and Italian defence industries to collaborate. He highlighted India's improved business environment, eased FDI norms in defence, and the creation of defence industrial corridors. Singh encouraged Italian industry leaders to strengthen supply chain linkages with Indian defence manufacturers and foster closer ties with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM). Furthermore, Singh welcomed proposals from CEOs to enhance defence relations and assured them of the Indian government's full support.

As a poignant gesture, Singh, along with Italian Under Secretary of Defense Matteo Perego di Cremnago and Indian Ambassador to Italy Neena Malhotra, visited Montone in Perugia Province. There, they paid tribute at a memorial honoring Naik Yashwant Ghadge and other Indian soldiers who served in the Italian Campaign during World War II. This visit not only reinforced historical ties but also deepened the unique connection India shares with Italy.

Source: Business Standard