Jeong Kyeong-doo Defense Minister Emphasizes Defense Industry Cooperation with India

[Asia Economy Reporter Yang Nak-gyu] Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-du attended India's largest defense exhibition, 'DefExpo 2020,' emphasizing defense cooperation between Korea and India.

On the 6th, the Ministry of National Defense stated, "Minister Jeong met with key figures such as Rajnath Singh, India's Defense Minister, and Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP), during the defense exhibition held yesterday in Lucknow, UP, India, to discuss ways to expand bilateral defense cooperation."

Before attending the defense exhibition, Minister Jeong visited the UP Chief Minister's office and held talks with Chief Minister Adityanath. During the meeting, Minister Jeong listened to explanations about the 'Defense Industry Special Zone' being established in UP and exchanged opinions on benefits and support such as tax reductions and land acquisition for Korean companies entering the region. The establishment of the Defense Industry Special Zone is a key initiative by the Indian government to encourage local production by foreign defense companies.

The Ministry of National Defense explained, "Both sides agreed during the meeting that defense cooperation is important for the substantial development of the Korea-India 'Special Strategic Partnership' and pledged to make efforts to ensure that the special zone becomes an important opportunity for mutually beneficial defense industry development between the two countries."

Minister Jeong visited Korean company booths participating in the defense exhibition, including Hanwha, to encourage exports to India. It was reported that over 700 companies from more than 30 countries worldwide participated in this exhibition. Twelve Korean companies, including Hanwha Defense, Korea Aerospace Industries, and LIG Nex1, also took part.

In particular, Hanwha exhibited the 'Biho Complex,' a strong candidate for the Indian Army's short-range surface-to-air missile procurement project, in actual form. India is about to make a final decision on the procurement of surface-to-air missile systems worth approximately 3 trillion won. The Biho Complex, a mobile air defense weapon system equipped with the K-30 Biho (30mm self-propelled anti-aircraft gun) and the Shingung surface-to-air guided missile, can intercept low-altitude infiltrating enemy aircraft.

At a meeting with Korean companies, Minister Jeong explained government efforts to open up defense export routes to the Indian market and listened to the companies' suggestions. Minister Jeong also held a bilateral meeting with Said Badr bin Saud, Oman's Minister Responsible for Defense Affairs, at the Korean SME pavilion during the defense exhibition visit, discussing the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and in the Middle East, as well as ways to strengthen defense exchanges and defense industry cooperation between the two countries. He also met with Mohammad Ahmed Al Bowardi, UAE's Special Minister of Defense, exchanging views on defense-related issues.

On the previous day, Minister Jeong hosted an event in New Delhi, India, inviting Korean War veterans and their families to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Korean War.

Minister Jeong emphasized, "As the Minister of National Defense of the Republic of Korea, I will firmly protect the peace that blossomed on the sacrifices of the veterans and ensure that such a devastating war never happens again," adding, "I will create peace based on strong power."

To express gratitude for the sacrifices of the veterans and reaffirm mutual respect and friendship between the two countries, Minister Jeong awarded the 'Apostle of Peace' medal, produced by the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, to the attendees. The event was attended by 35 family members of veterans, including the granddaughter of the commander of the Indian Army's 60th Field Hospital unit deployed during the Korean War. Minister Jeong is also scheduled to visit the 60th Field Hospital on the same day to express gratitude for the sacrifices and support made 70 years ago.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.