India, Czech Republic to expand defence industrial cooperation

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday (October 13, 2026) held bilateral talks with Czech Republic’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade Karel Havlíček, with the two sides agreeing to expand defence industrial cooperation, including through joint ventures and the India-Czech Joint Defence Committee.

The Defence Ministry informed that during the meeting in New Delhi, the two leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of defence industrial cooperation between the two countries and welcomed the ongoing collaboration and the successful establishment of several joint ventures.

They agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation to promote the ‘Make in India’ initiative and the government’s push for Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), according to the Defence Ministry.

The India-Czech Joint Defence Committee will remain a key platform for advancing the partnership and identifying avenues for deeper industrial collaboration.

The discussions also covered ongoing issues concerning peace and security, with both sides acknowledging the need for greater cooperation to maintain regional stability.

Mutual trust

Reaffirming the foundations of the bilateral relationship, the two leaders said the partnership between India and the Czech Republic was rooted in historical and cultural ties, as well as shared values of mutual trust and respect.

Mr. Havlíček is on a four-day visit to India and is scheduled to engage with various ministries, trade bodies and businesses. His itinerary also includes visits to industries in Bengaluru and Mumbai.

The visit is expected to provide an opportunity to explore avenues for expanding economic and industrial engagement between the two countries, including in the defence manufacturing sector.