DefenseNews: China and Pakistan have initiated significant joint anti-terror drills named "Warrior-VIII", marking another step in their deepening military collaboration. These exercises aim to bolster counter-terrorism expertise and demonstrate their commitment to regional stability amid evolving security threats.
The drills will involve multi-level training across various specialties and live troop drills that simulate actual combat scenarios, reinforcing practical exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries.
Significantly, the military drills, the eighth edition between the all-weather friends, are being held amid reports that China is pressing Pakistan to permit its forces to provide security for hundreds of Chinese personnel working in the USD 70 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The Chinese workers are facing increasing attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which is opposed to Chinese presence in Balochistan province. BLA along with the Islamic militant group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) stepped up attacks against the Chinese nationals and the Pakistan military in Balochistan and neighbouring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa bordering the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.
The attacks against the Chinese nationals are being carried out by suicide bombers of the BLA escalated despite Pakistan creating a Special Security Division (SSD) comprising 34 and 44 Light Infantry Divisions, with 15,000 troops each, according to recent reports by Pakistan daily Dawn.
"China will continue to support Pakistan in fighting terrorism," Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a media briefing here on Nov 11 while replying to a question about whether China is satisfied with the security protocols for its nationals and projects in Pakistan.
Background and Strategic Importance
China and Pakistan, long-standing strategic partners, share common security interests in combating terrorism and ensuring regional peace. Their military cooperation has expanded over the years, encompassing various domains, including defense technology exchange, intelligence sharing, and joint training programs. These drills serve to reaffirm their alliance and strengthen their operational interoperability.
China and Pakistan, long-standing strategic partners, share common security interests in combating terrorism and ensuring regional peace. Their military cooperation has expanded over the years, encompassing various domains, including defense technology exchange, intelligence sharing, and joint training programs. These drills serve to reaffirm their alliance and strengthen their operational interoperability.
Focus of the Drills
The anti-terror exercises emphasize simulated combat scenarios designed to counter diverse threats, including insurgent activities, hostage situations, and urban warfare. Special Forces units from both countries engage in high-intensity training, leveraging advanced tactics and weaponry. The inclusion of modern technology, such as drones and surveillance systems, underscores the drills' emphasis on precision and adaptability.
Geopolitical Implications
These drills hold significant geopolitical implications. They signal both nations' intent to collaborate closely in maintaining regional stability, particularly in South Asia. Additionally, the exercises highlight China's growing involvement in Pakistan's defense infrastructure, a cornerstone of their economic and strategic partnership under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Enhancing Regional Counter-Terrorism Efforts
The collaboration aims to address shared security concerns, including the potential spillover of extremist activities from neighboring regions. By fostering mutual trust and understanding, these exercises enhance the collective preparedness of both nations to respond to emerging threats effectively.
Broader Impacts on Regional Security
These drills send a clear message about the two nations' resolve to tackle security challenges collectively. Their enhanced military cooperation is likely to influence regional dynamics, encouraging neighboring countries to strengthen their counter-terrorism strategies.
Future Prospects
As China and Pakistan deepen their military ties, future exercises may expand to include other regional partners. Such collaborations could pave the way for a multilateral approach to counter-terrorism, benefiting the broader Asia-Pacific region.
0 Comments