Defence Minister Addresses 1st India-Africa Army Chiefs' Conclave in Pune

India will continue to work with African nations to promote regional security, foster stability and enhance the defence capabilities together.

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NEW DELHI. This was stated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the first edition of India-Africa Army Chiefs' Conclave organised on the sidelines of 2ndAfricaIndia Joint Exercise 'AFINDEX' in Pune, Maharashtra on March 28. The Conclave was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande and Chiefs & representatives of 31 African nations, along with other civil and defence dignitaries.

Rajnath Singh reiterated India's commitment to provide support to African partner countries in all defence-related matters, including capability enhancement of their Armed Forces, to ensure their economic growth and social development. He emphasised that the full potential of a nation's progress can be realised only when its security is ensured.

"We believe that preservation of individual human rights such as the right to life and personal liberty, right to employment, right to livelihood, etc. are dependent on a strong and effective state apparatus which can ensure the Rule of Law as well as promote economic growth &social development. Development can only take place in a safe and secure environment. Though many of us have come a long way since our independence, there are many African countries where the capacity building of state systems is still a work in progress," Defence Minister said, while emphasising the need to build robust state structures which can cater to the needs and aspirations of the people.