'Unprovoked aggression': Rajnath Singh accuses China during 2+2 dialogue with Russia

New Delhi : Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh accused China of showing 'unprovoked aggression' at the "2+2" meeting with his Russian counterpart. He said that India is looking for "sensitive and responsive" partners.

"The pandemic, the extra-ordinary militarization and expansion of armament in our neighbourhood and the completely unprovoked aggression on our northern border since early summer of 2020 have thrown in several challenges," Rajnath Singh said at the meeting aimed at boosting strategic partnership between the two nations.

"India is confident of overcoming these challenges with its strong political will and inherent capability of its people. Recognizing that its development needs are colossal and that its defence challenges are legitimate, real and immediate, India seeks partners who are sensitive and responsive to India's expectations and requirements," he added at the meeting with Sergey Shoygu, under the framework of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation.

Rajnath Singh has been loud and open on the China’s actions since the last year's incursion along the Ladakh border.

The India-Russia inaugural ''2+2'' dialogue – meant to widen the ambit of discussions on strategically important issues – was followed by summit meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who reached India today for a short visit.

The two nations have renewed a 10-year pact on military cooperation.