Wednesday, September 28, 2011, 10:38 AM

Tajik and Kyrgyz army troops hold joint counter-terrorism exercise.

The exercise involves soldiers and officers from the mobile, ground troops of the Tajik Defense Ministry, combatants from the Tajik special police force for the Rasht group of regions, as well as border troops and special force units of the Kyrgyz Defense Ministry, Tajik Defense Ministry spokesman Faridun Makhmadaliyev said.

According to the exercise scenario, a group of international terrorists is blocked in a mountainous gorge of Dzhirgatal, on the border between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. A large group of terrorists from the adjacent countries is trying to break through to help the besieged terrorists. In this situation, Tajik and Kyrgyz forces launch a joint operation, as a result of which terrorists will be eliminated.

The final stage of the joint exercise in Dzhirgatal is due to be attended by the two countries' defense ministries, who, after taking stock of the exercise, will hold a ceremony to bestow commemorative gifts and awards on the distinguished soldiers and officers, Makhmadaliyev said.

The exercise will involve armored vehicles and aircraft from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.