Northern Army Cdr begins 5-day China visit

Ranjit Thakur

Jammu, January 8

Close on the heels of joint military exercise between Indian and Chinese troops in Meghalaya, Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh today began his five-day China visit to exchange views with his counterpart on furthering peace and cooperation in the region.

The Army Commander is leading a high-level military delegation that would hold talks with top generals of the People’s Liberation Army as well as visit vital military and civil establishments in Beijing, Chengdu, Urumqi and Shanghai to exchange views on measures for furthering peace and tranquillity.

On his arrival in China, Lt Gen Singh met Chinese counterpart Gen Hanwei Gou, Commander (Ground Forces) People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in a free, congenial and cordial environment and discussed areas of mutual interest.

The two generals discussed issues having strategic ramifications to include regional security environment, joint training and measures to enhance peace and tranquillity along the border.

The visit of Lt Gen Singh assumes importance as it has come after Indian and Chinese troops concluded joint military exercise “Hand-in-Hand-2019” at the Umroi Military Station in Meghalaya.

Lt General Singh is the second Northern Army commander to visit China after the Lieutenant General DS Hooda (Retd) visited the neighbouring country in 2015.

“The visit will serve as a milestone by cementing mutual ties between the two countries. This will achieve the twin aims of high-level military cooperation and stabilising the sensitive borders of both countries.” an official spokesperson said.