In defence of military diplomacy

It needs to be incorporated in policy processes as it is increasingly becoming an essential part of a national effort for countries big and small.

Chief of the army staff Prabhu Ram Sharma is embarking upon a four-day official visit to India beginning today. In addition to meeting his counterpart, MM Naravane, Sharma will hold substantial meetings with senior-level leadership in the Indian government. In an investiture ceremony, he will also be conferred upon the honorary rank of general of the Indian Army by Indian President Ram Nath Kovind. The conferring of honorary titles between the two armies is a long-held tradition, but the visit encompasses many other facets crucial for the relationship between the two countries.