Fostering defence ties: Nepali Army chief engages in high-level meetings with COAS General Upendra Dwivedi during India visit

General Ashok Raj Sigdel, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of Nepal, is on a four-day official visit to India, from 11th to 14th December 2024. This high-profile visit aims to further bolster the defence cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. During the trip, General Sigdel is expected to engage in a series of discussions and interactions that will deepen the strategic relationship between the Nepali and Indian armies.

General Sigdel was given a formal Guard of Honour, a symbolic gesture of respect from the Indian Army. This event, attended by senior Indian military officials, marked a significant moment in the strengthening of the Nepal-India defence relationship.

Strategic Discussions and Military Briefings
General Sigdel engaged in a series of strategic meetings, primarily focusing on deepening bilateral defence cooperation. He met with General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff, for discussions on various regional security concerns. The two army chiefs deliberated on enhancing collaboration between their forces and improving security coordination.

A notable highlight of the day was the announcement by General Dwivedi regarding the transfer of a Target Practice Drone and medical equipment for Nepali field hospitals. These initiatives aim to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nepali Army and foster stronger defence ties between the two nations.

Meetings with Senior Indian Officials
General Sigdel’s interactions extended beyond military leaders to senior Indian defence and foreign officials. He met with Ajit Doval, India’s National Security Advisor, General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff, and other key officials, including Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. These high-level talks provided an opportunity to exchange views on broader security issues and explore further areas of cooperation.

The Nepali Army chief also met with representatives of India’s defence industry, where he expressed his appreciation for India’s efforts toward “Atmanirbharta” or self-reliance in defence manufacturing. This interaction further strengthened the ties between the two nations, with a focus on enhancing capabilities through collaborative efforts.

Evening Banquet and Informal Discussions
The day’s formal events concluded with a Banquet hosted in General Sigdel’s honour by General Dwivedi at the Indian Army Headquarters. This informal gathering provided a platform for further personal exchanges and helped cement the strong relationship between the two military leaders. The Banquet symbolized the mutual respect and trust that exists between Nepal and India’s armed forces.

A Step Forward in Nepal-India Defence Relations
General Sigdel’s visit underscores the continued efforts by both Nepal and India to enhance their defence cooperation. By fostering closer ties through strategic dialogue and military collaborations, the visit paves the way for future partnerships focused on regional security. General Sigdel’s engagements with senior military and government officials will likely lead to further initiatives aimed at strengthening the defence and strategic partnership between the two countries in the years to come.