On the second and final day of his engagements in Indonesia, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on November 17, 2023, held a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Defence of Timor-Leste Rear Admiral Prof Dr Donaciano Do Rosario Da Costa Gomes in Jakarta. During the meeting, the Defence Minister assured India’s continued support for the development needs of Timor-Leste, particularly in the defence sector. The two Ministers discussed potential areas for future collaboration including supply of Made-in-India defence equipment, capacity building and training.

The Timorese counterpart welcomed India’s decision to open an Embassy in Timor-Leste, and offered his Ministry’s support. He also thanked Defence Minister for India’s support to Timor-Leste’s efforts for becoming a full member of ASEAN.

Later, Rajnath Singh interacted with the members of the diverse and vibrant Indian community in Jakarta, including the leaders and members of various Indian organisations in the country. He appreciated their deep-rooted and close connect with India and highlighted Government of India’s achievements in past decade namely Digital India, New Education Policy, Women empowerment, Jal Jeevan Abhiyaan, Rural road connectivity, Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin etc. He also visited Shiva Temple at Pluit, Jakarta and offered prayers.

On November 16, 2023, the Defence Minister had attended the 10th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)-Plus in Jakarta.