NEW DELHI, Dec 11: On Wednesday, Nepal’s Chief of Army Staff General Ashok Raj Sigdel engaged in a detailed discussion with Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, addressing multiple facets of bilateral defence collaboration and regional security issues.
General Sigdel commenced an important official trip to India on Tuesday, representing a crucial step in enhancing defence relations between the two countries, according to the Defence Ministry.
During his visit, General Sigdel also held talks with Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
The meetings aimed to fortify the bonds between the two nations, as highlighted by a ministry statement on Wednesday.
These discussions also opened avenues for exchanging views on wider defence and security challenges, focusing on mutual interests and strengthening friendships, it added.
“His visit to India includes a schedule of fruitful engagements designed to boost the defence relationship between Nepal and India. This visit signifies the commitment of both nations to fortifying military ties and emphasizes their shared dedication to regional peace and security,” the ministry noted.
Earlier, General Sigdel began his day by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, honoring the courageous soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
“This moment of remembrance set a poignant tone for the day’s activities, underscoring Nepal’s dedication to honoring shared values of courage and sacrifice,” the ministry remarked.
After the wreath-laying, General Sigdel was reviewed with a formal Guard of Honour in front of the South Block.
“The ceremonial event, attended by senior Indian Army officials, served as a significant gesture of respect and a testament to the lasting friendship between the two nations,” it said.
Post-ceremony, General Dwivedi warmly welcomed General Sigdel to the South Block.
The Chief of Army Staff of Nepal participated in an extensive interaction with General Upendra Dwivedi, where various aspects of bilateral defence cooperation and regional security were underscored, according to the statement.
During their discussions, General Dwivedi announced the provision of a target practice drone and medical supplies for field hospitals, the ministry reported.
General Sigdel was later updated on India’s security strategy and mutual interests by senior Army officials from the Army Design Bureau, the ministry explained.
“These sessions offered insightful perspectives on India’s current and future security initiatives, emphasizing potential collaborative areas between the two nations,” the statement added.
General Sigdel also met representatives from the Indian defence industry, commending their ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) initiatives.
His visit, lasting from December 11-14, highlights ongoing efforts to deepen and strengthen defence ties between Nepal and India, as stated by the ministry.
The series of high-level discussions on Wednesday aimed at enhancing strategic collaboration between both armies.
The day’s activities will wrap up with a banquet hosted in General Sigdel’s honor by General Dwivedi.
“The banquet will serve as a platform for informal dialogues, further solidifying the strong personal connection between the two senior military leaders, enhancing mutual trust and understanding,” it concluded.
General Sigdel’s engagements with high-ranking military and government officials is anticipated to facilitate enhanced defence cooperation and strategic partnerships in the future, the statement indicated.
He is expected to return to Kathmandu on December 15, as noted by the ministry. (PTI)
