Pakistan, Tajikistan conclude joint counterterrorism exercise 'Dosti-II'

Pakistan and Tajikistan successfully concluded a joint counterterrorism exercise on Saturday, with Islamabad declaring that all training and military diplomacy objectives had been met.

The two nations have deepened security cooperation in recent years to combat terrorism, cross-border crime, and organized smuggling. In May 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Tajik President Emomali Rahmon in Dushanbe, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening strategic ties and joint efforts against militancy and human trafficking.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the 'Pakistan-Tajikistan Joint Counter Terrorism Exercise Dosti-II' took place from August 4 to 9 at the Fakhrobod Base in Tajikistan. It featured two combat teams from the Pakistan Army’s Light Commando Battalion and four teams from Tajikistan’s Special Forces.

“All training and military diplomacy objectives were achieved successfully,” ISPR stated, adding that troops from both sides demonstrated “the highest standards of professional excellence.”

The closing ceremony was attended by Pakistan’s Defense Attaché to Tajikistan and senior Tajik military officials.

The exercise focused on sharpening counterterrorism tactics, procedures, and coordination through joint operations.

Pakistan and Tajikistan maintain close ties rooted in trade, energy, and regional connectivity, notably through projects like CASA-1000, which aims to supply surplus Central Asian hydropower to Pakistan. Both countries are also members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

Strategically, Pakistan sees Tajikistan as a vital link to Central Asia, while Tajikistan views Pakistan’s ports in Karachi and Gwadar as key access points to the Arabian Sea.