Two of India’s traditional foes, China and Pakistan are all geared-up to conduct month-long joint military drills to enhance collaboration between their armies. The drills between the two nations is also aimed at counter-terrorism and protect the vital CPEC Project.
A Chinese unit from a special forces brigade of the People’s Liberation Army Xinjiang Military Region have started to assemble in Pakistan for the “Warrior VII” joint exercise, using vehicles and aerial transportation, according to a statement released by China’s Ministry of National Defense.
This is the seventh “Warrior” series exercise between special forces of Pakistan and China, the ministry said, noting that the training will focus on intensifying cooperation and communication, learning from each other’s combat experience and boosting the ability to deal with security threats and launch diversified missions.
A new exercise subject, joint defence of key facilities, will be added to the drills, as troops will engage in counter-terrorism in mountainous areas, according to the statement.
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Li Wei, a counter-terrorism expert at the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations in Beijing told the Global Times that key facilities might include iconic government and civilian buildings and major projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The joint military exercise will include live ammunition that will put both commanders’ and soldiers’ skills to the test, said Yang Lei, commander of the Chinese unit, in the defence ministry statement, noting that the event will enhance military training cooperation and deepen the traditional friendship between the Chinese and Pakistani armies.
