India : On Sunday, General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), initiated an official visit to the Republic of Korea (ROK) with the objective of strengthening the robust defense ties between the two nations. The visit holds special significance as it commences on November 20, marking the 73rd anniversary of the historic arrival of 60 Para Field Ambulances of the Indian Army in Busan during the Korean War.
The Ministry of Defence highlighted that the COAS’s itinerary includes interactions with senior military leadership in the ROK, visits to defense formations and establishments, and key highlights such as a bilateral meeting with General Park An-su, Chief of Staff of the ROK Army, and a dialogue with General Kim Seung-kyum, Chairman of Joint Chief of Staff of ROK Armed Forces. These engagements aim to foster mutual understanding, exchange views on regional security, and contribute to strengthening bilateral defense cooperation.
General Manoj Pande is also scheduled to visit the National Cemetery and War Memorial to lay wreaths in remembrance of fallen heroes. A special visit to the Indian Section of the War Memorial will honor the Indian soldiers who played a significant role in the Korean War.
The COAS’s tour will encompass visits to key establishments, including the Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA), the Korean Army Centre for Future and Innovation (KARCFI), and the Agency for Defence Development at Daejeon. Briefings on mutual interest issues, a visit to a Drone Combat Unit, and a tour of the Border Management and Surveillance Facility are also planned.
The visit holds significance as India and ROK celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties in 2023, emphasizing the commitment of both nations to strengthen their special strategic partnership. The visit is expected to further enhance bilateral cooperation, particularly in the realm of defense collaboration, showcasing the enduring camaraderie between India and the Republic of Korea.
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