Pakistan and Sri Lanka successfully concluded a two-week joint counterterrorism exercise in northwestern Pakistan on Thursday, aimed at strengthening operational coordination and refining combat tactics between the armed forces of the two nations, according to the military. The exercise, named Shake Hands-II, was held in Tarbela and brought together special operations forces from both countries for joint training in counterterrorism procedures, drills, and operational techniques, as stated by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military's media wing.
Objectives of the Exercise
The primary objective of the exercise was to refine the drills, procedures, and techniques involved in counterterrorism operations, the ISPR said in a statement. The military noted that the exercise began on April 27 and concluded after two weeks of intensive training designed to improve interoperability and enhance combat readiness. Combat teams from the Special Services Group of the Pakistan Army and Sri Lankan Special Forces participated in the exercise, demonstrating a high level of professional excellence throughout the drills.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The ISPR emphasized that the drills also reflected the longstanding military-to-military relationship between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, describing the exercise as part of broader defense cooperation between the two countries. The closing ceremony was attended by the General Officer Commanding of the Pakistan Army's Special Services Group as the chief guest, while Sri Lanka's Major General Ajith Abeyawardana also witnessed the concluding session. The troops displayed the highest standards of professional excellence during the conduct of the exercise, the ISPR added.
This joint exercise underscores the commitment of both nations to enhance their capabilities in counterterrorism operations and foster stronger defense ties. The successful completion of Shake Hands-II marks another milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the realm of security and defense.
