India – Sri Lanka Joint Training Exercise Mitra Shakti 2019 concludes in Pune

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Pune, December 14, 2019: India – Sri Lanka Joint Training Exercise, Exercise Mitra Shakti 2019 from 01 – 14 December 2019 concluded at Aundh Military Station, Pune with a joint culmination exercise. The exercise was witnessed by Major General Anil Kumar Kashid, General Officer Commanding, Shahbaaz Division in presence of senior Army officers and Defence officials of both the participating countries. The Sri Lankan observer delegation was led by Major General HPNK Jayapathirane.

Contingent comprising of 120 personnel each from Sri Lankan and Indian Army participated in the exercise. The 14 Day long exercise focused on enhancing interoperability for developing the capability to undertake joint operations in counter insurgency and counter terrorism operations under United Nations mandate. The themes chosen for the joint training exercise were both, live and contemporary affecting both the nations alike. The culmination exercise showcased the standards achieved by the contingents during the joint training and demonstrated the commitment as well as capabilities of the participating armies in working closely with each other to maintain world peace under the United Nations flag.

Both the contingents displayed high degree of enthusiasm and professionalism while practicing counter insurgency and counter various terrorism drills during the conduct of the joint training exercise which has been a great learning experience for both the contingents. The standards displayed by the contingents delivered a strong and reassuring message with regards to the intent, commitment and capability of both the armies towards maintain world peace and upholding the mandate of United Nations.

The conduct of such bilateral military training exercise is an important step to uphold the values of peace, prosperity, international brotherhood and trust. The exercise was a grand success and has taught valuable lessons to the troops of the participating countries.