Ladakh Standoff: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Won’t Meet His Chinese Counterpart During Russia Visit

A Chinese media report has claimed that Wei and Singh are likely to meet there over the border tension in eastern Ladakh. However, rubbishing the report, India clarified that Singh would not be meeting his counter part in Russia.

Rajnath Singh on his arrival in Moscow for a three day visit. He was received by Major General Kosenko Vasily Alexandrovich and the Indian Ambassdor to Russia. (PTI Photo)

New Delhi: In a clear anger for the neighbouring China after the violent Galwan Valley clash, Defence Minister  Rajnath Singh has decided not to have any bilateral meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe in Russia. Rajnath Singh is on a 3-day visit to Moscow at the invitation of the Russian Defence Minister to attend the 75th Anniversary of Victory Day Parade. Reportedly, China's State Councilor and Defence Minister Wei Fenghe will also attend June 24 Victory Day Parade of Russia. A Chinese media report has claimed that Wei and Singh are likely to meet there over the border tension in eastern Ladakh. However, rubbishing the report, India clarified that Singh would not be meeting his counter part there. Defence Ministry Spokesperson Bharat Bhushan Babu while intersecting with the media today cleared the air over Chinese media report claims and said, "Our Defence Minister would not be meeting the Chinese Defence Minister." Meanwhile, Rajnath Singh conveyed his greetings for solemn ceremonies of 75th Victory Day in World War II and congratulated the friendly people of Russia, especially the veterans, who have contributed so much to the common security of India and Russia. He also reviewed India-Russia defence cooperation with Deputy Prime Minister of Russian Federation - Yury Borisov who is the co-chair of the Inter-Governmental Commission with India on Trade and Economic and Scientific Cooperation. According to the reports, during the discussion, Rajnath mentioned that despite all the difficulties of the pandemic, India-Russia bilateral relations are keeping good contacts at various levels. India and Russia enjoy Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership and defence relationship is one of its important pillars. Their discussions on bilateral cooperation and regional issues today concluded on a positive and productive note. Earlier this morning, Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar had discussions with his counterpart, Deputy Defence Minister, Col General Alexander Fomin. They discussed bilateral defence cooperation issues and issues of regional development. (With inputs from PTI news agency)