Defence Minister Rajnath Singh used a ceremony marking induction of five Rafale jets into the Indian Air Force to send a strong message

Ambala: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday used a ceremony marking induction of five Rafale jets into the Indian Air Force to send a strong message to China, saying national security is a major priority for India and it is determined to protect its territory.

Singh said induction of Rafale jets into the IAF is crucial considering the kind of atmosphere being created along India's border.

Rajnath Singh"It is a strong message for the entire world, especially those eyeing India's sovereignty," he said in an address at a ceremony here.

Singh's stern message to the neighbouring country came hours ahead of an expected meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the margins of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave in Moscow.

The much anticipated talks are taking place against the backdrop of a massive spike in tension in eastern Ladakh triggered by fresh face-offs between the two armies along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

RafaleThe defence minister said India's responsibility is not limited to its territorial boundary and that it is committed to peace and security in Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean.

"This kind of induction is very important for the kind of atmosphere that has been created on our borders in recent times," the defence minister said.

Rajnath Singh

The defence minister also complimented the IAF for its "swift action" near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) during a recent unfortunate incident.

Speaking on the occasion, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said induction of Rafale jets could not have happened at a more opportune time considering the security scenario.