Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to visit Malaysia to participate in the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) on November 1, where he will address the forum on the evolution of ADMM-Plus over the past 15 years and outline future directions. On the sidelines of the meeting, Singh will engage in bilateral talks with defence counterparts, including a key discussion with U.S. Defence Secretary Hegseth aimed at easing tensions related to recent tariff measures imposed by Washington and enhancing defence cooperation. With India planning to procure six Boeing P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft from the U.S., the talks are expected to establish a new framework for strategic ties. This engagement follows a period of frayed relations, and both nations appear poised to recalibrate their partnership, particularly after India has taken steps to diversify its energy sourcing amidst geopolitical pressures. Singh’s visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening regional security cooperation and highlights its evolving role within the ASEAN framework, particularly regarding counter-terrorism and maritime security. The discussions promise to lay a robust foundation for future bilateral relations, underscoring the significance of maintaining strategic partnerships in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.