India Welcomes Nepali Army Chief, Reaffirms Commitment to Defence Cooperation
New Delhi: General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff of the Nepali Army, is on a four-day official visit to India, aimed at bolstering defence cooperation and strategic ties between the two nations.
The visit began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial, where General Sigdel paid tribute to India’s fallen soldiers. A formal Guard of Honour followed, symbolizing the enduring friendship between Nepal and India.
General Sigdel held in-depth discussions with General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army, focusing on bilateral defence cooperation, regional security concerns, and potential areas of collaboration. The Indian Army also handed over a Target Practice Drone and medical equipment to the Nepali Army.
The Nepali Army Chief also met with senior Indian defence and foreign officials, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. These meetings facilitated the exchange of views on defence and security issues, further strengthening ties between the two nations.
General Sigdel’s visit is expected to pave the way for enhanced defence cooperation and strategic partnership between Nepal and India. His interactions with senior military and government officials will foster mutual trust and understanding, promoting regional security and peace.
The visit will continue with the Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan, where General Sigdel will be conferred with the honorary rank of General of the Indian Army by President Draupadi Murmu.
