Gilgit: Pakistani and Chinese troops began the Karakoram 2026 joint training exercise in China’s Xinjiang region on Wednesday, focusing on strengthening their ability to conduct counterterrorism operations together.

The opening ceremony took place at a training base in Korla city, according to China Military Bugle, the official media account of China’s armed forces.

Troops from both countries exchanged counterterrorism experience, while the Pakistani contingent observed Chinese weapons and equipment.

Announcing the exercise last week, Chinese Defence Ministry press secretary Colonel Chen Xi said it would deepen military exchanges and cooperation and improve the two sides’ ability to respond jointly to terrorist threats.

He said the training would centre on joint counterterrorism clearance operations at high altitudes.

According to Xinhua, the programme includes drone operations, searching for and engaging targets while moving, and long range sniping. It will also cover joint command and exercises involving troops on the ground.

The drills follow a joint patrolling exercise held by the two countries in September at Mantika Pass, near Khunjerab in the upper Hunza area of Gilgit Baltistan.

That exercise took place at an altitude of approximately 4700 metres, adding a recent high altitude component to their military cooperation.

Pakistan and China have a longstanding strategic partnership, with defence cooperation forming a significant part of their bilateral relationship.

In May, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening military cooperation and strategic coordination.