New Delhi sent a contingent of 65 Indian Armed Forces personnel from the Army, Air Force and Navy, the Newsonair radio news service quoted a Defense Ministry statement as saying.

The joint exercises, led by Russia and Belarus and involving around 100,000 soldiers, allowed the forces to improve their operational capabilities, integrate new technologies and work in a multinational environment, the news outlet noted.

India’s participation strengthened ties in the sector with Russia and served to promote mutual trust and collaboration between the two countries, according to the source.

India and Russia treasure a close relationship, which is reinforced at the level of Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership and their highest authorities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin have reiterated their commitment to strengthening it.

The defense sector is one of the key areas in these bilateral ties.

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