Pakistan and Sri Lanka have completed a joint military exercise in the counter-terrorism domain at Tarbela, Pakistan, according to a statement issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Thursday.
The exercise was named Shake Hands-II, and it was held between the armies of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It lasted for two weeks and began on April 27, 2026. It concluded on Thursday, today.
Shake Hands-II concludes
Combat teams from the Special Services Group of the Pakistan Army and Sri Lankan Special Forces took part in the exercise.
“Two weeks long Exercise commenced on 27 April 2026 and concluded today. Combat teams from Special Services Group, Pakistan Army and Sri Lankan Special Forces participated in the Exercise,” the statement said
The main purpose of the exercise was to improve counter-terrorism skills. This exercise focused on training, drills, and operational procedures used in anti-terror operations.
“The Exercise was aimed at refining the drills, procedures and techniques involved in Counter Terrorism operations through joint training, besides harnessing the historic military to military relations among both the friendly countries,” the statemnt read.
It also aimed to strengthen military cooperation and improve relations between the two friendly countries.
The closing ceremony was attended by the General Officer Commanding of the Special Services Group as the chief guest, according to thr statement.
Major General Ajith Abeyawardana from Sri Lanka also attended and saw the ceremony. Officials said that the troops showed a high level of professionalism during the exercise.
“General Officer Commanding Special Services Group attended the closing ceremony as Chief Guest. Major General Ajith Abeyawardana (WWV RWP RSP) from Sri Lanka also witnessed the closing ceremony. The troops displayed highest standards of professional excellence during the conduct,” the statement read.
Both sides said the exercise helped in improving joint training and understanding. It also helped in building stronger military-to-military relations between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
The Pakistan-Sri Lanka Joint Exercise 'Shake Hands-II' in the Counter-Terrorism domain concluded today after two weeks of joint training at Tarbela, Pakistan. Combat teams from Pakistan's Special Services Group and Sri Lankan Special Forces participated in refining… pic.twitter.com/mWaKjkWDlX
— P Connect (@ConnectingPak) May 7, 2026
