core sector communique

VISIT OF CHINESE DEFENCE MINISTER TO NDC, INDIA

New Delhi: Bhadrapada 14, 1934

Wednesday, September 05, 2012

Gen Liang Guanglie, Chinese Defence Minister, along with senior dignitaries and officials from the People’s Republic of China visited the National Defence College on 05 Sep 12. This is the first time since its inception in 1960 that such a high level military delegation from China visited the College. After a brief interaction with the Commandant, Air Marshal PK Roy, the delegation was briefed in detail on the history, role, academic and research activities at higher learning levels in national security and strategic affairs at the premier institution. The Defence Minister and his entourage were subsequently taken on a tour of the College and shown various facilities.

While welcoming General Liang Guanglie, Air Marshal PK Roy, highlighted that friendship and cooperation between India and China is not only in the vital interest of both our countries but also for the world of tomorrow. He further emphasised how “this visit by the Hon’ble Defence Minister to the National Defence College of India – where we inculcate strategic thinking amongst our future leaders – is so important”.

National Defence College is the highest seat of learning on matters of National Security and Strategy. It imparts training in national and international security related fields to the selected senior Defence and Civil Services officers and promotes research and understanding of various related issues by creating the necessary academic environment for such work. It has grown in stature over the years and enjoys an enviable reputation both within India and abroad.

The Chinese Defence Minister expressed keen interest in the scope and training methodology at the College. He also felt that exchange of young military officers at junior levels would further help enhance military cooperation. During informal meeting with course members including those from foreign countries, he wished them a fruitful stay and advancement in their career. He termed his visit to the National Defence College as a step towards “Enhancing Exchange and Cooperation and Enhancing Friendship between the two countries”.