Pak-Turk joint military exercise ‘Ataturk-XI’ concludes

ISPR says three-week long exercise focused on counter-terrorism operations and built-up area clearance drills

The closing ceremony of the Pakistan-Turkey joint military exercise, which began earlier this month, titled “Ataturk-XI 2021” held in Terbela, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement on Saturday.

Troops from Turkish Special forces and Pakistan’s Special Service Group (SSG) participated in the exercise, the military’s media wing said.

Closing ceremony of Pakistan-Turkey joint military exercise ATATURK-XI 2021 was held at Terbela on Saturday. Troops from Turkish Special forces and Pakistan’s Special Service Group (SSG) participated in the exercise, according to #ISPR pic.twitter.com/yFCmYOI0Hz

— The Express Tribune (@etribune) February 20, 2021

 

“The three-week long exercise focused on counter terrorism operations including cordon and search techniques, built-up area clearance drills with combat aviation support, hostage rescue. Free fall by paratroopers and martial arts were also practiced during the training,” it added.

Inspector General Training and Evaluation Lieutenant General Syed Muhammad Adnan witnessed the closing ceremony as the chief guest.

A high-level military delegation from Turkey headed by Major General Emre Tayanc also attended the event.

Pakistan and Turkey historically have enjoyed close cooperation but the recent regional developments further brought the two countries closer.

Both countries had also agreed to deepen their defence cooperation and stressed the need for the early implementation of the “Pakistan-Turkey Strategic Economic Framework”.

Islamabad and Ankara have enjoyed close defence relations. Special forces from both countries routinely engage in joint drills to further improve upon skills and coordination.