Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the National Cemetery of Korea in Seoul during his official visit on Wednesday. The visit comes as India and the Republic of Korea look to strengthen defence cooperation and expand their strategic partnership…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid homage to fallen soldiers at the National Cemetery of Korea during his official visit to Seoul on Wednesday, highlighting India’s recognition of shared sacrifices and international military history.
Singh is in South Korea on a two-day visit aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and advancing the strategic partnership. He arrived after concluding a visit to Hanoi, where India and Vietnam reinforced their Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
In a post on X, Singh said: “Laid wreath at the National Cemetery of Korea and paid homage to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in service of their nation. Their courage, dedication and spirit of patriotism remain an enduring source of inspiration. India stands in solidarity with the Republic of Korea in honouring the legacy of its heroes.”
He added earlier upon arrival: “The visit will provide an opportunity to deepen bilateral ties and enhance collaboration in areas of mutual interest.”
During the visit, Singh is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with South Korea’s Minister of National Defence Ahn Gyu-back, with discussions expected to review ongoing defence cooperation and explore new areas of collaboration. The talks will also include an exchange of views on regional and global security developments.
Singh is also due to meet Minister of Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), Defence Acquisition Program Administration chief Lee Yong-cheol, and chair the India–Korea business roundtable aimed at expanding defence-industrial cooperation.
According to India’s Ministry of Defence, India’s contribution during the Korean War remains a significant part of bilateral history. It noted the deployment of the 60 Parachute Field Ambulance unit, which served for more than three years, treating over two lakh patients and conducting around 2,500 surgeries, including care for civilians.
The ministry also highlighted India’s role as Chair of the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission, an Indian proposal to the United Nations, which facilitated the repatriation of nearly 2,000 prisoners of war through the Custodian Force of India, a 5,230-strong contingent.
A joint inauguration of the Indian War Memorial with South Korea’s Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Kwon Oh-eul is scheduled for May 21.
Officials said the visit is expected to add momentum to defence-industrial cooperation, technology exchange and strategic dialogue between New Delhi and Seoul, reflecting growing convergence in the Indo-Pacific.
