Pakistani and Saudi Special Forces began 12-day Al-Shahab-I counter-terrorism exercises in eastern Pakistan on Monday.

A contingent of 57 Saudi personnel arrived in Pakistan to take part in the exercises, which would conclude on October 31.

This is the first time that the two countries are holding joint counter-terrorism exercises but the two countries have participated in joint military war games in the past.

The exercises started at the National Counter-terrorism Training Center (NCTC), near Kharian city (Pakistan). The joint counter-terrorism drill, which would be observed by senior officers from both sides, provides an insight into the defense cooperation between the two countries.

Earlier, spokesperson for Pakistan military, Director General (DG) Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asim Bajwa said that joint military exercises between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are part of normal routine.

Bajwa said that a pre-scheduled Pak-Saudi joint exercise, Samsam-5 was being held since March 19 in Taif, Saudi Arabia, adding that 292 Pakistani troops were participating in the exercises.

Meanwhile, joint air exercises between Pakistan and Turkish Air Forces have been concluded at an operational air base of Pakistan Air Force (PAF).

According to a PAF spokesperson, the Turkish air force contingent comprising five F-16s, combat pilots and ground technical crew participated in the 13 days exercises. The aim of these exercises was to boost Pak fighting ability and strengthen its power. (File Photo)