General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), commenced a visit to the Republic of Uzbekistan from April 15th to 18th, 2024, signaling a significant advancement in bolstering defense cooperation between India and Uzbekistan.
During his stay, scheduled meetings on April 15th, 2024, will see General Manoj Pande engage in discussions with key defense figures of Uzbekistan, including Lieutenant General Bakhodir Kurbanov, the Defense Minister; Major General Khalmukhamedov Shukhrat Gayratjanovich, the First Deputy Minister of Defense and Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces; and Major General Burkhanov Ahmed Jamalovich, the Deputy Minister and Chief of Air and Air Defense Forces. These talks are pivotal in enhancing military collaboration. The itinerary also features visits to the Armed Forces Museum and the Hast Imam Ensemble, offering insights into Uzbekistan’s military history and achievements.
On April 16th, 2024, the COAS will honor Late Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, by laying a wreath at his monument. Following this, he will visit Victory Park, commemorating Uzbekistan’s contributions in World War II. Engagements for the day will also include a visit to the Centre for Innovative Technologies LLC, providing an overview of Uzbekistan’s defense technology initiatives. General Manoj Pande will then visit the Uzbekistan Armed Forces Academy and inaugurate an IT lab, established with India’s assistance.
On April 17th, 2024, General Pande will travel to Samarkand to meet the Commander of the Central Military District. The visit will conclude in Termez on April 18th, 2024, where the COAS is scheduled to witness the Joint Exercise DUSTLIK between the armed forces of India and Uzbekistan, showcasing their interoperability and camaraderie. Additionally, he will explore the Termez Museum and the historical monuments of the Surkhandarya Region, gaining insights into Uzbekistan’s rich history and culture.
General Manoj Pande’s visit aims to enhance military cooperation between India and Uzbekistan while exploring new avenues of collaboration.
