Marking a new phase in defence ties, India and Brunei launch their first joint working group to boost military cooperation and seek a new roadmap for defence tech.
India and Brunei held the first meeting of their Joint Working Group (JWG) on Defence Cooperation in New Delhi on 9 December 2025. The discussions focused on expanding military engagement, improving maritime security collaboration, and identifying new areas for defence technology and industry cooperation.
Both sides placed particular emphasis on securing sea lanes, enhancing joint training, and deepening cooperation in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).
The talks were co-chaired by Amitabh Prasad, Joint Secretary in India’s Ministry of Defence, and Ms Poh Kui Choon, Deputy Permanent Secretary from Brunei’s Ministry of Defence.
Before the formal discussions began, the two officials signed the terms of reference establishing the Joint Working Group (JWG). This document sets the framework for structured and regular engagement between the countries’ defence establishments.
Officials described the signing as the start of a new phase in bilateral defence relations. The JWG will serve as the central platform for assessing ongoing activities and developing new opportunities for cooperation.
India and Brunei reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and a rules-based order across the Indo-Pacific region. They also highlighted the importance of strengthening regional security mechanisms at a time of evolving strategic challenges.
During her two-day visit, Ms Poh Kui Choon called on India’s Defence Secretary, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, for further discussions. She also toured the newly inaugurated DPSU Bhawan in New Delhi.
The facility, opened by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, brings together all 16 Defence Public Sector Undertakings under one roof to promote cooperation, innovation, and showcase India’s defence manufacturing capabilities to international partners.
