India, Uzbekistan troops carry out joint drills to hone counter insurgency skills

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<strong>The second edition of India-Uzbekistan joint field training exercise to counter insurgency and terrorism concluded after 10 days near Ranikhet in Uttarakhand on Friday amidst bonhomie and espirit-de-corps between troops of both armies, according to a defence ministry statement.</strong></p>
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After intense military training, the joint exercise concluded with both armies exhibiting their combat power and dominance over the terrorist groups during the Validation Exercise, the statement said. </p>
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The drills included counter insurgency operations in mountainous terrain and ant-terrorism operations in urban areas as well under the UN mandate. According to sources, Indian troops shared their experience in Kashmir to hone the counter terrorism skills of their Uzbekistan counterparts.</p>
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Exercise Dustlink-II which started on March 10 provided an opportunity for sharing of expertise on skills at arms between the two countries, the statement said. It also promoted professional and social bonding between the participating soldiers, the statement said.</p>
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Uzbekistan is a friendly country of strategic importance to India and provides connectivity to Central Asia.</p>
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India also has joint exercises scheduled with other Central Asian countries including Kyrgystan and Kazakhstan lined up this year as part of the growing engagement in the region.</p>
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The closing ceremony showcased the immense talent with unique traditional touch of both nations. The senior officials expressed their satisfaction and gratitude towards the professional conduct of the exercise.</p>
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The bonhomie, espirit-de-corps and goodwill generated during the exercise will go a long way in future strengthening the bonds between the armed forces of both countries, the defence ministry statement added.</p>
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