The
fifth joint exercise between Indian and China, named ‘Hand-in-Hand 2015’,
commenced at Kunming Military Academy, Yunnan Province, China on 12 Oct. The
twelve day exercise will lay emphasis on joint handling of counter terrorism and
‘Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief’.
The
opening ceremony commenced with an impressive parade by both contingents
wherein national flags of both countries were brought on parade, followed by
national anthem of both countries. The combined parade was commanded by
Lieutenant Colonel Ruchir Pant of Indian Army. A Weapon and Equipment Display
was organized to familiarize with each others weapon systems at sub unit level.
This was followed by a demonstration of skills by the Indian contingent, which
enthralled the audience with a spectacular display of Yoga training, energetic
tribal dances of Nagaland and unarmed combat skills. The Chinese contingent displayed
combat shooting and obstacle negotiation skills within the Military Academy
premises.
Lt Gen Zhou Xiaozhou, head of the
Chinese Observer Delegation stated that the joint exercise will play important
role in deepening mutual cooperation and forging a closer development
partnership. He said that the exercise would expand the scope of military
interaction, facilitate exchange of best practices in counter terrorism
operations, enhance mutual understanding and trust and further promote friendly
relationship between both militaries.
Shri
Ashok Kantha, the Indian ambassador to China emphasized the need to tackle
terrorism jointly and stressed on expanding defence cooperation at all levels.
Lt Gen Surinder Singh, head of the
Indian Observer Delegation expressed confidence that the exercise will become a
landmark in the history of bilateral relations of both countries and we will
continue to work together and take our traditional friendship to new heights. He
stated that both countries shared common perspective regarding countering
terrorism in all its manifestations. He welcomed the proposed visit of Vice
Chairman of CMC in Nov 15. The general officer thereafter declared the Exercise
Hand- in - Hand open.
The exercise Hand-in-Hand-2015 will
contribute immensely in developing mutual understanding and respect for each
other’s military as also facilitate in tackling the world wide phenomenon of
terrorism.
Click here to see photographs
Col Rohan Anand, SM
PRO (Army)
From Kunming, China