Kochi

The 14th edition of India–Maldives joint military exercise Ekuverin began in Kochi on Tuesday and will continue till December 15.

Forty-five personnel from the Indian Army’s Southern Command are participating alongside an equal Maldivian contingent.

Held alternately in both countries since 2009, the exercise aims to boost interoperability in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations across jungle, semi-urban and coastal terrains. It includes shared tactical drills, best practices and joint planning.

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The Defence Ministry said Ekuverin highlights the nations’ long-standing defence ties and India’s commitment to regional peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.