MoS defence meets UK minister to boost defence cooperation

London (United Kingdom), Sept 7 (ANI): Minister of State for Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre on Wednesday met United Kingdom Minister of Defence Procurement Harriett Baldwin and discussed a wide range of issues covering the entire spectrum of defence cooperation between the two nations. The two leaderships discussed various issues, including the Indo-United Kingdom collaboration in joint research, development and production, which has tremendous potential for growth. Dr. Bhamre reiterated India's resolve in enhancing its defence capability and improving its defence industrial base, aiming towards becoming self-sufficient and also invited greater British participation in the 'Make in India' programme. Meanwhile, India also drew attention to the challenges being faced by both countries due to increased terrorist activities globally, and cross-border terrorism being faced by India. "Terrorism is a global phenomenon and a clear message must go to countries supporting terrorism. There could be no differentiation between good and bad terrorists," he said. The UK Minister acknowledged India's stand on terrorism and expressed UK's resolve to cooperate in the field of counterterrorism. London acknowledged India's tremendous experience in UN Peacekeeping operations worldwide and expressed its desire for learning. Dr. Bhamre is in the UK to attend 'United Nations Peacekeeping Defence Ministerial Conference 2016' scheduled to begin on September 8. During his visit, Dr. Bhamre also interacted with Minister of State for Asia and the Pacific in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Alok Sharma and discussed a wide range of bilateral issues. (ANI)