US Defense Secretary hails 'best ever' relationship with India

On June 1, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin praised the growing relationship between the US and India, saying that the relationship is based on shared vision and values, and asserted that the momentum in the relationship will not only continue but also accelerate.

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin speaks at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, June 1. (Source: Reuters)

According to Secretary Austin, the fact that the US and India are cooperating in the defense sector and in the Indo-Pacific region is a testament to the growing relationship between the two countries.

When asked by delegates attending the ongoing Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore about the US-India bilateral relationship, Secretary Austin emphasized: “The relationship we have with India today is better than our relationship has ever been… We are cooperating in the production of armored vehicles with India.”

“Together with our friends in the region, we are breaking down national barriers and better integrating our defense industries,” Austin said in a speech on the Indo-Pacific region.

The Indo-Pacific is a biogeographic region that includes the Indian Ocean, the Western and Central Pacific Oceans, and the South China Sea,” Austin said, adding that the United States will continue to play a key role in the Indo-Pacific.

In addition, Secretary Austin also informed delegates that the US defense industry is integrating with the defense industries of countries in the region, including Japan. “Together, we are investing in capabilities that promote long-term security and stability. And together we are ensuring that the Indo-Pacific remains secure,” he said.

There are growing concerns that Washington's focus on supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, while trying to prevent the conflict from spreading, has diminished attention to the Indo-Pacific region, Reuters reported.

However, Secretary Austin affirmed that despite historic clashes in Europe and the Middle East, the Indo-Pacific region remains a priority for US operations.

The Pentagon chief stated in his speech: "Let me reiterate: America can only be safe if Asia is safe. That is why the Washington administration has maintained its presence in this region for a long time."

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/bo-truong-quoc-phong-my-ca-ngo-moi-quan-he-tot-dep-nhat-tu-truoc-den-nay-voi-an-do-273475.html