To review the 201st Sovereign’s Parade of Commissioning Course 223, General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff left for the United Kingdom on August 9. The parade will be organised at the prestigious Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst as the Sovereign’s Representative.
Notably, General Manoj Pande is India’s first Chief of Army Staff to serve as the Sovereign’s Representative at the parade. The Sovereign’s Parade is a prestigious event noted for its distinguished history and the graduation of officer cadets from all over the world. The General will also pay a visit to the Indian Army Memorial Room, which is a source of pride at the Royal Military Academy.
This visit represents a significant turning point in the strengthening of the political, military, and cultural ties between the two countries. It demonstrates the steadfast friendship that has grown over time, fostering communication and cooperation between parties involved in security and defence.
According to the Defence Ministry’s press release, General Manoj Pande will meet with General Sir Patrick Sanders, Chief of General Staff of the British Army, and General Gwyn Jenkins, Vice Chief of Defence Staff of the UK Armed Forces, during his visit to the UK. He will hold high-level talks with General Sir James Hockenhull, Commander of UK Strategic Command, Lieutenant General Ralph Wooddisse, Commander Field Army, and Major General Zachary Raymond Stenning, Commandant of Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, focusing on issues of mutual interest such as defence cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts, and strategic planning.
The Ministry further stated, the General’s participation in the Sovereign’s Parade demonstrates the continuous commitment to strengthening military ties and advancing global peace and security. It is an appropriate example of mutual respect and admiration, cementing the strong basis of India-UK relations. According to the Ministry, the special invitation to General Manoj Pande acknowledges the long-term collaboration and friendship between India and the UK.