India and Italy sign pact to bolster defence cooperation 

The governments of India and Italy are in the process of finalizing a significant defence pact. This agreement, which aims at streamlining security coordination between the two nations, is also anticipated to facilitate Italian defence firms seeking business in India. 

Details of the Agreement 

The specifics of the deal are yet to be confirmed, but the intent seems clear. According to inside sources, the agreement is expected to increase the efficiency of official coordination on security matters. It’s a strategic move aligned with Italy’s aspirations to restructure its security ties with Ind and secure a substantial foothold for its defence firms within the Indian market. 

“Not only are major Italian companies involved but also innovative small and medium Italian firms. The range of feasible technologies and products is wide, from torpedoes to UAVs, from flight control systems to electronic equipment for defence, from vessels and shipbuilding to aircraft,” said the Italian Ambassador to India in an interview to Mint.

Potential Impact on Defence Companies 

As this agreement takes shape, it’s likely that defence companies will find it smoother to operate. While it might not facilitate major defence exercises between the two countries initially, bilateral exercises could be on the horizon as the next stage in the security partnership. 

Revisiting the Past 

This forthcoming pact bears significance beyond its face value, as it indicates that both nations are seeking to move beyond their contentious recent history. Readers might recall an incident in 2012, when two Italian marines shot Indian fishermen off the coast of Kerala. The incident caused a diplomatic crisis. Now, almost a decade later, both nations are looking to strengthen their ties and open a new chapter in their relationship. 

“The new defence agreement reflects a desire to open a new chapter in bilateral ties,” said the persons aware of the ongoing negotiations.

Towards that end, India lifted the ban on the Italian defence firm Leonardo Spa in 2021. The said firm was previously involved in the AgustaWestland chopper scandal.

Expectations for the Future 

It’s anticipated that the Morosini, an Italian naval patrol vessel, will be deployed to India in August. Moreover, a high-level seminar is being planned to discuss the future of bilateral maritime security cooperation.

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