Pakistan, Russia joint military exercise kicks off

According to a statement by Pakistan army, exercise DRUZBA 2017 between Special Forces of Pakistan and Russia will focus on counter-terrorism operations, hostage and rescue, Cordon and Search Operation.

“The joint exercise will enhance and further strengthen military ties between both countries and share Pakistan Army's experience in war against terrorism,' said the statement.

Last year both countries for the first time had also conducted joint military exercise in Pakistani northern areas.

Earlier Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson had said that Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is scheduled to visit Russia in the first week of October to discuss expansion of defense ties between the two countries.

Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nafees Zakaria at his weekly news briefing in Islamabad said that the visit is part of the regular high-level exchanges between Pakistan and Russia.

“We will continue to contribute further to the defense cooperation between the two countries,” he said.

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