Pune, April 28, 2025: The closing ceremony of the sixth edition of the India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise Dustlik 2025 was held today at the Aundh Military Station in Pune. This annual bilateral exercise, which has become a cornerstone of defence cooperation between the two countries, brought together troops from the Indian Army and Uzbekistan Army to enhance interoperability and strengthen their shared commitment to counter-terrorism operations.

This year's edition of Dustlik focused on joint training in semi-urban warfare scenarios, emphasizing counter-terrorism tactics, coordination drills, and the exchange of best operational practices. The joint exercises simulated real-time threats, allowing both armies to develop strategies for neutralizing terrorist networks, securing population centers, and ensuring regional stability.

Over the course of the drills, troops from both nations engaged in complex maneuvers, room interventions, hostage rescue operations, and surveillance exercises—all designed to refine operational readiness and enhance joint response capabilities.

Addressing the closing ceremony, senior military officials from both sides lauded the professionalism, enthusiasm, and cohesion demonstrated by the troops. They emphasized that Exercise Dustlik not only improves tactical skills but also strengthens the longstanding defence partnership between India and Uzbekistan, contributing to peace and stability across the region.

"The synergy and mutual understanding achieved during these exercises ensure that our forces remain a formidable deterrent against terrorist threats," remarked a senior Indian Army officer. "Together, the Indian Army and Uzbekistan Army stand united and prepared to neutralize any challenge to regional security."

Exercise Dustlik, launched in 2019, has grown into a vital platform for fostering military-to-military cooperation between India and Uzbekistan. It reflects the growing strategic alignment between the two countries, particularly in areas related to counter-terrorism, military diplomacy, and regional stability.

The conclusion of Dustlik 2025 reinforces the unwavering resolve of both nations to work together in confronting evolving security challenges in the region, while also promoting peace, cooperation, and mutual respect.