ISTANBUL

China and Nepal began a joint military exercise Sunday in southwestern China's Chongqing Municipality.

It marks the fourth joint training session between the two countries’ armed forces, with the last one held in 2019.

Under the theme of "joint counter-terrorism operations in urban blocks," the training involves activities such as small arms shooting for special operations, counter-terrorism squad tactics, drone operations, emergency rescue drills and comprehensive counter-terrorism exercises.

Scheduled to run until Oct. 1, the training also includes joint research and exchanges on disaster response strategies, particularly concerning earthquakes, avalanches and landslides.

Cultural exchange events will further promote mutual trust and understanding between the two military forces.