Pakistan, China conduct joint counterterrorism exercise 'Warrior-IX'

Pakistan and China are conducting a two-week joint counterterrorism exercise, Warrior-IX, aimed at strengthening military cooperation and improving joint operational readiness, Pakistan’s military said on Thursday.

The exercise runs from November 28 to December 14 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Organized by the Pakistan Army and China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the drills are designed to enhance interoperability and counterterrorism capabilities between the two allied forces, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) wing.

On December 11, a Distinguished Visitors Day (DVD) ceremony was held at the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) in Pabbi. The event was attended by Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong as chief guest, senior PLA officials, and Pakistan Army’s Chief of General Staff as guest of honor.

During the visit, dignitaries were briefed on the objectives and execution of the exercise and observed a series of drills demonstrating tactical skills, operational readiness, and coordination between Pakistani and Chinese troops.

The ISPR said the joint exercise highlights the “robust defense partnership” between Pakistan and China, reaffirming their commitment to regional peace, security, and stability.