ISLAMABAD, May 7 — The Pakistani and Sri Lankan armies successfully concluded a two-week joint counter-terrorism exercise, “Shake Hands II,” on Thursday in Tarbela. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that the exercise, which began on April 27, was designed to refine specialized drills and techniques while further harnessing the historic military-to-military ties between the two friendly nations.
Quick Facts
- The two-week “Shake Hands II” exercise concluded in Tarbela on May 7, 2026.
- Elite combat teams from Pakistan’s SSG and Sri Lankan Special Forces conducted the training.
- Units focused on refining specific drills and techniques for counter-terrorism operations.
- Pakistan has provided critical military assistance to Sri Lanka for over 25 years.
- The event follows a similar joint counter-terror drill with the Egyptian army in Cherat last month.
- The ISPR praised the “highest standards of professional excellence” displayed by both forces.
Pakistani and Sri Lankan special forces held a two-week-long counterterrorism exercise in Cherat, Pakistan: pic.twitter.com/ehyA2IE0mF
— The STRATCOM Bureau (@OSPSF) May 7, 2026
The “Shake Hands II” exercise featured combat teams from Pakistan’s elite Special Services Group and Sri Lankan Special Forces engaging in high-intensity field training. According to the ISPR, the troops displayed “the highest standards of professional excellence” as they shared tactical expertise in urban and rural counter-terrorism environments. The drills focused on the swift execution of niche operational procedures necessary for modern asymmetrical warfare.
The closing ceremony highlighted the strategic depth of the Islamabad-Colombo relationship. Pakistan has historically remained a key defense partner for Sri Lanka, providing critical support during its domestic insurgency. Military officials noted that such exercises are pivotal for the Pakistan Army as it continues to expand its “military-to-military” diplomacy, conducting regular air, ground, and sea exercises with regional allies to ensure a unified response to security challenges.
The successful completion of this exercise comes amid a broader push by Pakistan to enhance professional capabilities and interoperability with friendly forces. By integrating diverse operational techniques, both armies aim to maintain a robust deterrent against evolving terrorist threats in the South Asian region.
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