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Ambala, Haryana – The Indo-Vietnam Joint Field Training Exercise, VINBAX-2024, concluded on November 20 with a 48-hour joint validation phase, marking a new milestone in the bilateral relations between India and Vietnam. The event showcased strong collaboration in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, with the final exercise, ‘Ex Raahat,’ held at Kaushalya Dam, Ambala, Haryana.
Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar, General Officer Commanding of the Kharga Corps, lauded the exercise in his valedictory address, emphasizing the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. “This exercise is a significant step towards building mutual understanding and enhancing interoperability, reaffirming the India-Vietnam comprehensive strategic partnership,” he stated.
Senior Colonel Dr. Nguyen Ba Hung, Deputy Director of Peacekeeping Operations, Ministry of National Defence, Vietnam, described the exercise as a testament to both nations’ commitment to disaster management and relief efforts. “VINBAX-2024 underscores our shared resolve for peace and cooperation, demonstrating advanced capabilities in medical and engineering tasks crucial for HADR operations,” he said, while expressing gratitude to the Western Command, Command Hospital, Air Force, and Indian civil authorities for their support.
Key Highlights of VINBAX-2024
1. Training Initiatives: Beginning on November 4, the exercise included UN mission orientations, engineering, and medical task-sharing sessions under a United Nations mandate.
2. Strategic Focus: Activities like ‘Ex Blue Helmet’ and ‘Ex Raahat’ aimed at fostering disaster management preparedness and joint operational capabilities.
3. Seamless Collaboration: The multi-agency HADR Validation Exercise, ‘Ex Raahat,’ demonstrated flawless coordination among the Indian Armed Forces, Para-Military Forces, and civil authorities, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment.
The exercise reflects a growing commitment to enhancing the preparedness and operational synergy of the Indian Army and the Vietnam People’s Army. VINBAX-2024 sets a precedent for future collaborative efforts, reinforcing shared goals for regional stability, disaster resilience, and international peacekeeping.
