Indian and Chinese armies on Monday kicked off their fifth annual anti-terrorism exercise in China’s Kunming city as both the sides seek to share their successful experiences in counter-terrorism operations during the 10-day drill.
From the Chinese side, Lieutenant General Zhou Xiaozhou addressed the participating troops.
Indian Ambassador to China Ashok K Kantha and Head of Observers Delegation Lieutenant General Surinder Singh attended the meeting and addressed the participating troops.
Observer groups of both armies witnessed an impressive opening ceremony at Dabanqiao Training Base of 14 Group Army at Kunming.
The purpose of the exercise is to develop joint operating capability, share useful experience in counter-terrorism operations and promote friendly exchanges between the armies of India and China, the press release said.
Troops of both sides will undergo intensive joint training, which will include displays, demonstrations, and a comprehensive joint exercise.
Troops from 14 Corps of China’s Chengdu Military Region, which focuses on borders with India are taking part in the exercise.
Both sides are fielding the same number of troops for the joint exercise, which will culminate on October 22, a press release from the Indian Embassy said.
The first drill was held in southwest China’s Yunnan Province in 2007, followed by drills in Belgaum in Karnataka in 2008. The third round was held in southwest China’s Sichuan in 2013 and the fourth round in Pune in 2014. India for the first time
Indian, Chinese Army kick off 10-day anti-terrorism exercise