Ukraine and India discuss cooperation in defense industry
Photo: Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine Herman Smetanin (mspu.gov.ua)
On Saturday, October 26, representatives from Ukraine and India held a working meeting to explore cooperation opportunities in the defense industry, according to the Ministry of Strategic Industries of Ukraine.
Herman Smetanin, the Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine, met with Indian Ambassador Ravi Shankar and Naval Attaché Santosh Belliappa. They discussed prospects for Ukraine-India cooperation in the defense industry. Smetanin emphasized that India serves as a strategic partner for Ukraine.
"Ukraine remains open to expanding partnerships in the defense sector and is willing to consider various forms of collaboration. At this stage, it is crucial to assess the capabilities and needs of the defense sectors in both our countries, identify challenges, and determine the path forward," Smetanin stated.
In response, Ambassador Shankar welcomed the proposal for enhanced cooperation and assured Smetanin of the embassy's support in formulating specific initiatives.
In addition, the German defense firm Rheinmetall plans to build four weapon manufacturing plants in Ukraine, one of which is already operational.
