Cementing existing sound relations between the two Armies further, a high level four-member delegation of the Indian Army, is now in Sri Lanka for the second meeting of the Army to Army Staff Talks (AAST). 

The India-Sri Lanka Army to Army Staff Talks (AAST), a novel approach, meant to further strengthen close military co-operation and forge common understanding over security issues between both organizations, saw its birth in New Delhi in June last year with the participation of a five-member team from Sri Lanka Army.  

The Indian military delegation, comprised of Major General Gurdeep Singh AVSM, Additional Director General, International Cooperation, Brigadier Harsha Guptha, Deputy Director General Military Operations, Colonel Gagan Deep, Director-C, Defence Cooperation Division and Colonel Vivek Tyagi, Director Military Training (MT16) of the Indian Army before AAST proper begin today (28), paid a courtesy call on Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya this morning at Army Headquarters. 

The delegation during the meeting with the Sri Lankan Army Chief expressed satisfaction over the progress that has been made after its inception a year ago. Lieutenant General Jayasuriya pointed out that the new bilateral understanding on security issues after this arrangement, has made great strides in the past one year and underlined the importance of maintaining the status quo. 

Several other matters of bilateral importance were also taken up during the cordial exchange of views between the Sri Lankan Army Chief and the visiting delegation of the Indian Army. 

Head of the delegation, Major Genetal Gurudeep Singh before his exit from the Commander’s office presented a memento to the Commander as a symbol of memory and appreciation. The gesture was reciprocated. 

Major General Gurdeep Singh, Additional Director General, International Cooperation as a veteran in Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare has served many appointments as a General Officer Commanding, Brigadier General Staff at a Corps Headquarters, Colonel General Staff (Planning) at a Command Headquarters, Colonel General Staff of a Division, Command of an Infantry Brigade and a few more appointments as an Instructor at Indian Military Academy, Indian Military Training Team, Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School and Defence Service Staff College, Wellington. He had been awarded India’s most prestigious military honour, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM). 

Brigadier Harsha Guptha, Deputy Director General Military Operations has served in varied terrain including Counter Insurgency Operations and High Altitude Area in addition to his Regimental appointments.