New Delhi, August 24
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), embarked on an official visit to Algeria from August 25- 28, a statement by the Ministry of Defence said.
The visit comes close on the heels of the recent visits by the President of India and the Chief of Defence Staff, underlining the importance accorded to strengthening India-Algeria relations, as per the statement.
The visit aims to reinforce defence and security engagement between India and Algeria, with a focus on bolstering Army-to-Army cooperation, sharing perspectives on regional and global security challenges, and exploring avenues for defence industrial collaboration.
During the visit, Dwivedi will hold high-level meetings with senior Algerian leadership, including General Said Chanegriha, Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defence and Chief of Staff of the People's National Army; Lieutenant General Mostefa Smaali, Commander of Land Forces; and Swati Kulkarni, Indian Ambassador to Algeria. He will also visit prominent military institutions such as the School of Command and Major Staff, Tamentfoust; Cherchell Military Academy and pay homage at the Martyrs Memorial.
As a precursor to the visit, Indian defence industries had showcased their capabilities at Defence Seminar in Algiers from July 30 to August 1, laying the foundation for defence industry and technology collaboration, as per the statement.
The visit of the COAS is expected to further deepen the historic ties between the two nations and provide impetus to advancing shared security interests, regional stability and defence cooperation, the statement said.
His visit will see the enhancement of bilateral defence cooperation between India and Algeria.
https://x.com/adgpi/status/1959406190158618723
In a post on X, the ADGPI said, "General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, proceeded on an official visit to Algeria today. The visit underscores a shared commitment to deepening mutual understanding, enhancing cooperation in areas of common interest and advancing bilateral Defence Cooperation between the two nations."
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is excellent strategic diplomacy. India needs strong partners in Africa, and defence cooperation is the perfect way to build lasting relationships. Our defence industry can learn from their experience too.
While I support international cooperation, I hope these visits translate into tangible benefits for our armed forces and not just diplomatic formalities. The real test will be what agreements actually materialize.
Algeria has a strong military tradition. Our officers visiting their academies will gain valuable insights. Hope this leads to more joint training exercises! ðŸ‘
Good to see India expanding its defence partnerships beyond traditional allies. Algeria can be a gateway to broader African cooperation. Make in India products should find new markets through such engagements.
The defence seminar in July was a smart precursor. Shows proper planning and follow-through. Hope our indigenous defence equipment gets good traction in the Algerian market.
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