In accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding on exchange and cooperation in the field of defence, signed between India and China in 2006, the first Sino Indian Joint Training Exercise "Hand in Hand 2007" will commence in Kunming, tomorrow.
Based on the theme of counter terrorism, the exercise will be conducted from 20th to 25th Dec 07. One Armed Reconnaissance company of the PLA and an equivalent strength of Indian Troops will participate in the exercise which will include establishment of a joint command post, joint battle decision making and conduct of anti terrorism drills.
The joint training exercise between the armies of the two countries is reflective of the growing relations between India and China in the field of defence. Earlier this year two ships of the Indian Navy made a port call at Qingdao and participated in a joint exercise with the PLA Navy. The countries also held their first ever Annual Defence Dialogue in China in Nov this year.
The Indian contingent which arrived in Kunming China this afternoon (19 Dec 07) is being led by Brig DS Dadwal. Before departure of the contingent from Guwahati this morning, the contingent commander stated "this is an historic occasion and a very significant one. This is for the first time that troops of the Indian Army will be participating in a joint exercise with troops of the Peoples Liberation Army of China".
A ceremonial welcome was accorded to the Indian Contingent on its arrival at Kunming Airport. The contingent was received by Senior Colonel Tian, Senior Colonel Zhang, Senior Colonel Wu Hiao Yi and more than 40 officers of PLA with a ceremonial band in attendance. A strong contingent of Chinese Media was also present on the occasion.