China, Pakistan begin first-ever joint army training exercise

China and Pakistan began their first-ever joint army training exercise on Wednesday in northwestern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, state media reported.

The opening ceremony of Karakoram 2026 was held at a training base in Korla city, according to the China Military Bugle, the official media account of Beijing's armed forces.

The two sides exchanged counter-terrorism experience and Pakistani troops observed some Chinese weapons and equipment.

Focusing on joint counter-terrorism operations in high-altitude areas, the exercise will include skills training in UAV operation, on-the-move target search and firing, and long-range sniping, and cover joint command and live-force exercises.

The training will help the two sides deepen cooperation and strengthen interoperability in counter-terrorism.