India, Mediterranean Nations Aim For Deeper Defence Cooperation

In the 2024-25 budget, India increased its defence allocation by 6.7 per cent, focusing on modernising ammunition and infrastructure. This boost presents a unique opportunity for enhanced cooperation between India and the Mediterranean region. Strengthening intelligence-sharing and counter-terrorism operations can help both sides address common security challenges, while capacity-building measures can foster greater trust and operational efficiency.

Moreover, collaboration in defence manufacturing, technology transfer and joint research and development can open a new door of partnerships. By working together, India and Mediterranean countries can develop cutting-edge technologies that benefit their respective defence industries. Joint ventures and co-production of advanced military systems would enable both regions to capitalise on each other's expertise, promoting innovation and competitiveness in the global defence market.

At the India Mediterranean Business Conclave, Puneet Kaura, Managing Director and CEO of Samtel Avionics said the increasing global defence spending, is driven by the need for enhanced security and advanced weapons capabilities. "India is modernising its armed forces at a fast pace," Kaura stated, highlighting India’s USD 20 billion annual defence budget and the government's focus on local manufacturing.

Kaura also said that the importance of partnerships between India and global players, especially in the Mediterranean region, to foster technological growth through joint ventures and skill development.

Both sides believe that such partnerships could also lead to more robust economic ties, opening new avenues for trade and investment. Ultimately, deepening collaboration between India and the Mediterranean region in defence will enhance security, spur industrial growth and foster technological advancements, creating a stronger and more secure future for both regions.

Jose Antonio Porto, Managing Director of Navantia India Liaison Office, called for global collaboration in defence development, emphasising that no company can evolve without cooperating with international partners. He viewed India’s policy as a gateway for Western firms to collaborate with Indian companies for global technological advancements.

Octavian Gh. Roca-Nastase, an International Affairs Advisor from Romania’s SN Nuclearelectrica, said that the link between energy security and defence is very detrimental. Romania’s diverse energy mix, especially its reliance on nuclear energy, which is critical for national and military infrastructure, he added.

Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the Mediterranean nations played a crucial role in linking the Atlantic with the Indo-Pacific as India seeks to strengthen the relationship amid a rapidly growing economy.

India’s trade with the Mediterranean reached USD 77.89 billion, which is an increase of about USD 10.89 billion from the previous year.

Addressing the same Conclave in New Delhi, Jayshankar reiterated the long-standing historical connections between India and the Mediterranean. He also said that there is a huge opportunity for deeper economic and strategic ties and highlighted the region's centuries-old trade routes that have facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas and cultures between the East and West.

Jaishankar also introduced the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), announced at the G20 Summit in New Delhi, as a vital initiative for enhancing global connectivity. He noted that IMEC could serve as a cornerstone for economic cooperation, promoting sustainable growth and resilience across critical regions.