COAS General Upendra Dwivedi Begins Official Tour of UAE and Sri Lanka
The Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, has embarked on an official tour to the United Arab Emirates and Sri Lanka from January 5 to 8, 2026. This visit is part of India's ongoing efforts to enhance defense collaboration and establish strong military relations with allied countries.
Engagements in the United Arab Emirates (January 5–6)
General Dwivedi's visit starts in the UAE, where he will be honored with a Guard of Honour by the UAE Land Forces. During his stay, he plans to meet with top officials of the UAE Armed Forces, including the Commander of the UAE Land Forces. He will also be briefed on the operations, roles, and capabilities of the UAE Army.
The Chief of the Army Staff will tour major military facilities, converse with the officers and soldiers, and deliver a speech at the UAE National Defence College. These interactions aim to solidify bilateral defense relations, broaden professional military exchanges, and enhance strategic cooperation between the Indian and UAE armed forces, furthering the India–UAE defense partnership.
Visit to Sri Lanka (January 7–8)
Following his engagements in the UAE, General Dwivedi will continue his trip in Sri Lanka, where the Sri Lanka Army will present him with a Guard of Honour. During his visit, he will meet with senior military and government officials, including the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, the Deputy Minister of Defence, and the Defence Secretary.
The discussions in Sri Lanka will concentrate on training collaboration, capacity development, and regional security, emphasizing mutual interests in maintaining stability across the Indian Ocean Region.
General Dwivedi will also address officers at the Defence Services Command and Staff College and engage with officers and trainees at the Army War College in Buttala, reinforcing India's commitment to defense education and professional military exchanges with Sri Lanka.
Paying Homage
As part of his itinerary, the Chief of the Army Staff will pay his respects at the IPKF War Memorial, honoring the sacrifices of Indian soldiers who served in Sri Lanka.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
This visit underscores India's dedication to bolstering defense ties, fostering mutual trust, and improving interoperability with friendly nations in West Asia and the Indian Ocean Region. It is aligned with New Delhi's broader strategic initiatives and security cooperation efforts.
