Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will lead India’s delegation to the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting‑Plus (ADMM‑Plus) in Cebu, Philippines, on 28–29 October 2026, the Ministry of Defence said. He is scheduled to address the meeting on regional and international security matters and to hold bilateral discussions with defence counterparts from participating states to review existing cooperation and explore new avenues for partnership.
What the forum is and who is attending
The ADMM‑Plus brings together the 10 ASEAN member states and eight Dialogue Partners — India, the United States, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand — as a platform for defence dialogue and cooperation. The Philippines is chairing the ADMM‑Plus in 2026.
India’s stated priorities and role
The Defence Ministry described India’s participation as part of its broader defence diplomacy under the Act East policy, emphasising efforts to promote peace, stability and security in the Indo‑Pacific region. India is also co‑chairing the Experts Working Group on Counter‑Terrorism with Malaysia for the 2024–2027 cycle, a role highlighted as part of the country’s engagement in the ADMM‑Plus process.
- Dates: 28–29 October 2026 (Cebu, Philippines)
- India’s leadership role: Rajnath Singh to head delegation and address the forum
- Counter‑terrorism: India co‑chairs the ADMM‑Plus Experts Working Group on Counter‑Terrorism (2024–2027) with Malaysia
Since the inaugural ADMM‑Plus meeting in Hanoi on 12 October 2010, Defence Ministers of participating countries have met annually to deepen defence cooperation. The meeting in Cebu will provide an opportunity for exchanges on the evolving regional and international security environment and to discuss mechanisms for enhancing defence collaboration.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Minister will hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines to review ongoing defence cooperation and explore further strategic partnerships. The Ministry framed India’s engagement at the ADMM‑Plus as aligned to New Delhi’s objective of strengthening ties with Southeast Asian nations and contributing to regional security architecture.
