New Delhi: General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), set off on a significant visit to the Republic of Uzbekistan from April 15th to 18th, 2024, aimed at enhancing defence cooperation between India and Uzbekistan.
The visit commenced with strategic dialogues on April 15th between General Manoj Pande and key defence officials of Uzbekistan, including Lieutenant General Bakhodir Kurbanov, the Defence Minister, Major General Khalmukhamedov Shukhrat Gayratjanovich, the First Deputy Minister of Defence and Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, and Major General Burkhanov Ahmed Jamalovich, the Deputy Minister and Chief of Air and Air Defence Forces. These discussions underscored the mutual commitment to strengthening military ties between the two nations. General Pande also paid a visit to the Armed Forces Museum and the Hast Imam Ensemble, gaining insights into Uzbekistan’s military history and achievements.
On April 16th, General Pande paid tribute to the legacy of Late Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, the former Prime Minister of India, by laying a wreath at his monument. The day’s engagements also included a visit to Victory Park, commemorating Uzbekistan’s contributions to the Second World War. Additionally, General Pande visited the Centre for Innovative Technologies LLC, where he gained valuable insights into Uzbekistan’s defence technology initiatives. He also inaugurated an IT lab at the Uzbekistan Armed Forces Academy, symbolizing India’s support in fostering technological advancements in the Uzbek military.
Continuing his visit, General Pande traveled to Samarkand on April 17th to meet with the Commander of the Central Military District. The visit culminated in Termez on April 18th, where General Pande witnessed the Joint Exercise DUSTLIK between the armed forces of India and Uzbekistan, highlighting the interoperability and camaraderie between the two nations. Additionally, he explored the Termez Museum and historical monuments of the Surkhandarya Region, gaining a deeper appreciation of Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage.
General Manoj Pande’s visit to Uzbekistan underscores India’s commitment to strengthening defence cooperation and exploring new avenues of collaboration with Uzbekistan. This visit is poised to further deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations and foster mutual growth and prosperity in the region.
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