NEW DELHI, 04 July (TON): Indian Army chief General MM Naravane will embark on an official visit to the United Kingdom (UK) and Italy between July 5 and July 8, during which he will be meeting his counterparts and the senior military leadership of these countries.

The highlight of the visit will be Gen Naravane’s inauguration of the Indian Army Memorial in the famous town of Cassino, Italy.

In the Battle of Monte Cassino during World War II, over 5,000 Indian soldiers laid down their lives while fighting to save Italy from fascist forces. Nearly 50,000 Indians were enlisted for Italy’s liberation between September 1943 and April 1945.

Officials said “both the UK and Italy are important partners for India in the fields of defence, healthcare, aerospace, education, clean technology, renewable energy and information and communication technology among others.”

The visit to the United Kingdom is scheduled for two days, July 5 and 6, during which the chief will interact with the British Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of General Staff, the Minister of State for Defence and other dignitaries.

Officials said “during the second leg of his tour, the Army Chief will be holding important discussions with the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Staff of the Italian Army on July 7 and 8.

Officials said that, the COAS will also inaugurate the Indian Army Memorial and will be briefed at the Italian Army’s Counter IED Centre of Excellence at Cecchingola, Rome.