New Delhi, Aug 11 (UNI) Australian Army Chief Lieutenant General Simon Stuart arrived here today on a four-day official visit to India to further strengthen bilateral Defence cooperation and enhance
strategic engagement between the two countries.
‘’This high-level visit reaffirms the strong and growing India–Australia Defence partnership and underscores the shared commitment of both nations towards a stable, secure and rules-based Indo-Pacific region,’’ an official spokesman said here.
The visit began with a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial where General Stuart paid homage to the fallen heroes of the Indian Armed Forces. This was followed by a Guard of Honour at South Block and a formal call-on with General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff.
The Australian Army Chief was briefed on India’s security perspective, Operation SINDOOR, and recent advancements in technology absorption within the Indian Army.
He also met senior leadership of the Indian Armed Forces including General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, Air Chief Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar.
General Stuart will travel to Agra tomorrow to visit the 50 (Independent) Parachute Brigade and interact with all ranks. He will also visit the iconic Taj Mahal before returning to New Delhi to deliver a keynote address at the National Defence College.
On August 13 and 14, the Chief of the Australian Army will travel to Pune where he will interact with Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, and visit the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla.
He is scheduled to address the cadets on leadership, joint training, and cooperation. During the two-day visit he will also participate in other Defence cooperation engagements.
