Guwahati, Jan 29: In a significant move to bolster bilateral defence cooperation, Lt. Gen. Zubin A. Minwalla, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 33 Corps and Colonel of the Regiment, 9 Gorkha Rifles, visited Nepal to further strengthen the longstanding military relationship between the Indian Army and the Nepalese Army.
During his visit, Lt. Gen. Minwalla met with General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of Army Staff, Nepalese Army, and Honorary General of the Indian Army, at the Nepalese Army Headquarters in Kathmandu. Their discussions centred on enhancing military-to-military cooperation, fostering deeper strategic ties, and exploring new avenues for collaboration between the two armed forces.
Additionally, Lt. Gen. Minwalla engaged in an extended discussion with Maj. Gen. Pawan Raj Ghimire, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nepalese Army’s Eastern Division, at his headquarters. This interaction provided a platform to deliberate on regional security dynamics and reinforce operational coordination between the two armies.
As part of his visit, Lt. Gen. Minwalla toured the Defence Wing’s Welfare Branch and the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Polyclinic in Kathmandu, where he interacted with Nepalese ex-servicemen who have served in the Indian Army. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to the welfare of its ex-servicemen in Nepal, emphasizing the importance of meaningful healthcare and support initiatives.
India and Nepal share historical and cultural ties, with a unique military relationship underscored by the service of thousands of Nepalese soldiers in the Indian Army. This visit reinforces the enduring defence partnership and highlights the shared commitment to regional stability and security.
Lt. Gen. Minwalla’s visit underscores India’s proactive approach to strengthening defence diplomacy and maintaining robust military cooperation with Nepal, further enhancing strategic collaboration in the region.
