Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi Meets PM Oli, Highlights Deepening Bilateral Defense Ties

The visiting Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) of the Indian Army, General Upendra Dwivedi, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Singha Durbar.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Oli expressed satisfaction with the long-standing tradition of exchanging honorary general titles between the armies of Nepal and India. He emphasized the importance of further expanding relations and cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

General Dwivedi, recently conferred with the honorary title of General of the Nepali Army by President Ramchandra Paudel, expressed his gratitude and honor at receiving the distinction. He stated his commitment to fostering stronger bilateral ties and collaboration between the two countries and their armed forces.

The Indian Army Chief also discussed ways to enhance the already robust bilateral and defense cooperation between Nepal and India. “Together, we can take defense relations to greater heights,” General Dwivedi remarked, affirming the importance of partnership and shared objectives.

High-Level Meetings and Engagements

The meeting was attended by key officials, including the Prime Minister’s Chief Advisor Bishnu Rimal, Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava, Joint Secretary at Nepal’s Foreign Ministry Bhrigu Dhungana, and Major General Madhukar Karki of the Nepali Army.

Earlier, General Dwivedi also called on Nepal’s Defense Minister to exchange views on military cooperation and bilateral relations. He emphasized the critical role defense partnerships play in maintaining regional stability and fostering mutual trust.

Engagement at Shivapuri Command and Staff College

Before his meeting with the Prime Minister, General Dwivedi visited the Nepali Army Command and Staff College in Shivapuri, where he was warmly received by Major General Dhruba Prakash Shah, Director General of Military Training (DGMT), and the Commandant of the college.

The Indian CoAS addressed student officers at the institution, discussing the importance of professional military training and shared learning experiences between the two nations.

Honorary General Title Conferred

On Thursday, President Ramchandra Paudel conferred the insignia of Honorary General of the Nepali Army on General Dwivedi during a ceremony that celebrated the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Reinforcing Historic Ties

General Dwivedi’s visit is seen as a continuation of the historic and close relationship between Nepal and India, particularly in defense and security cooperation. Both sides have reiterated their commitment to further deepening these ties, ensuring that their shared heritage and mutual interests continue to guide their partnership in the future.

This visit not only underscores the significance of defense diplomacy but also highlights the shared resolve to maintain regional peace, stability, and progress.