New Delhi. Indo-Maldives joint exercise Ex EKUVERIN–2019 culminated on October 20 with an impressive closing ceremony held at Foreign Training Node, Aundh Military Station, Pune.

The 14-day military event that commenced on October 7 included joint training of the contingents in counter insurgency and counter terrorism operations in semi urban environment under the United Nations mandate, developing interoperability and cohesion between both the contingents.

As part of validation exercise held on October 20, troops of both the armies carried out specialised joint counter-terrorist operations which was witnessed by dignitaries of both the armies. The validation exercise was reviewed by Major General JJ Mathews of the Indian Army in presence of senior officers of both the participating countries.

The Maldivian side was represented by Brigadier General Waise Waheed. The exercise concluded on October 20 with a ceremonial closing ceremony.

Exercise EKUVERIN-2019 was very successful in increasing the bonhomie and camaraderie amongst both the participating nations. The troops shared best practices being followed by both nations in varied terrain and the exercise provided an opportunity to both the armies for greater understanding and strengthening mutual trust and cooperation..