Guwahati: In a bid to further bolster the longstanding defense cooperation between India and Nepal, Lt. Gen. Zubin A. Minwalla, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 33 Corps and Colonel of the Regiment of the 9 Gorkha Rifles, recently visited Nepal.
The visit was aimed at strengthening military-to-military ties and exploring new opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.
During his visit, Lt. Gen. Minwalla met with General Ashok Raj Sigdel, the Chief of Army Staff of the Nepalese Army, at the Nepalese Army Headquarters in Kathmandu.
The two leaders engaged in discussions focused on enhancing the defense relationship, fostering deeper strategic cooperation, and identifying areas for further collaboration between the Indian and Nepalese armed forces.
In addition to his meeting with General Sigdel, Lt. Gen. Minwalla held an extended interaction with Major General Pawan Raj Ghimire, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nepalese Army’s Eastern Division.
This engagement provided an opportunity for the officers to address regional security concerns and to strengthen coordination between the two military forces.
Lt. Gen. Minwalla also visited the Defence Wing’s Welfare Branch and the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Polyclinic in Kathmandu.
During this visit, he met with Nepalese ex-servicemen who had served in the Indian Army and reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to supporting the welfare of its ex-servicemen in Nepal.
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The visit highlighted the importance of ensuring comprehensive healthcare and support for these veterans.
India and Nepal share a deep-rooted historical and cultural connection, with thousands of Nepalese soldiers having served in the Indian Army over the years.
This strong military bond is a cornerstone of the India-Nepal relationship. Lt. Gen. Minwalla’s visit further strengthens this partnership, underlining the shared commitment of both nations to maintaining regional stability and security.