The third India-Sri Lanka joint training exercise " Mitra Shakti-2015" culminated yesterday after a grand closing ceremony held at Aundh Military Camp, Pune.

The 14-day joint training included understanding of transnational terrorism, developing interoperability and conduct of joint tactical operations controlled by a Joint Command Post.

Brigadier Tapan Lal Sah of the Indian Army and Brigadier KP Aruna Jayasekera of the Sri Lankan Army jointly reviewed the parade commanded by Major Ashish Kumar, of Indian Army.

The reviewing officers as well as the Sri Lankan participating contingent were amazed when Major Ashish Kumar gave the report and sought permission to commence the proceedings from Brigadier KP Aruna Jayasekera in chaste Sinhalese. Martial skill display by Indian Army added colour to the impressive parade displayed by the joint contingent.

Brigadier KP Aruna Jayasekera of the Sri Lankan Army after addressing the parade declared the joint training closed.

Observers of both the nations, which included senior military officials, were unanimous in their praise for the professionally conducted training which has resulted in instilling confidence in each other's capability to counter the common threat of terror.

The exercise demonstrated the determination of the two armies in working closely with each other to eradicate the menace of terrorism in all its forms.

(ANI)