RAWALPINDI: Troops from Pakistan and Sri Lanka commenced a two-week bilateral counter-terrorism exercise in Tarbela, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a press release.

The “Pakistan–Sri Lanka Bilateral Exercise Shake Hands-II” is a joint counter-terrorism exercise conducted between the two armies, the ISPR said.

The exercise commenced on April 27 (Monday) at Tarbela, with the participation of Pakistan Army’s Special Services Group (SSG) and Special Forces from the Sri Lankan Army. It is expected to last two weeks, according to the statement.

“The exercise aims to enhance professional capabilities through joint training while further strengthening the longstanding military-to-military relations between the two friendly nations,” the military’s media wing added.

“Participating troops will benefit from the exchange of operational experiences and expertise in counter-terrorism operations, contributing to improved interoperability and mutual understanding.”

Last week, Pakistan and Egypt concluded a two-week-long military exercise focused on counter-terrorism. The exercise was “designed to enhance interoperability by refining drills, procedures, and techniques related to counter-terrorism operations through joint training”, the ISPR said.

In January, a contingent of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) travelled to Saudi Arabia to take part in a multinational aerial combat exercise. The same month, Pakistan and the United States took part in a two-week bilateral joint military exercise ‘Inspired Gambit 2026’.