Indo-Bangla 14-day joint exercise concludes

Shillong, Feb 16 (IANS) The two-week India-Bangladesh military training exercise Sampriti-IX that focused on counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism and disaster management concluded at Umroi, Meghalaya, on Sunday.

According to army spokesman Lieutenant Colonel P. Khongsai, the joint military exercise was aimed at strengthening the military relations between the two countries and it allowed the two armies to understand each other's tactical drills and operating techniques.

"In all 150 troops from each side took part in the ninth edition of Sampriti that started on February 3," Lt Col Khongsai told IANS.

The head of observer delegations from both sides conveyed their appreciation for the participating contingents for achieving the objectives of exercise.

"The exercise provided an ideal platform for jawans of the two countries to share experiences on counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism operations and in providing aid to civil authorities for disaster management, especially in forests and semi-urban terrain," he said.

The Sampriti series is an important military and diplomatic initiative between the two nations and strengthening the edifice of trust and friendship, which has been nurtured with the sweat and toil of officers and soldiers of contingents participating in each edition.

The defence spokesman also said besides training, both contingents also participated in a number of activities, including sports events and played volleyball and basketball games.

A magnificent parade and the customary exchange of mementos marked the completion of the joint exercise. "The joint exercise was undoubtedly an unprecedented success. Besides promoting understanding and inter-operability between the two armies, it helped in strengthening ties between India and Bangladesh," the Army official said.

India and Bangladesh share 4,096 km (2,545 mile) border, the fifth-longest land border in the world.