Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, General Raheel Sharif, who was in Turkey on special invitation by Turkish Government, witnessed multi national military exercises "EFES 2016" in two sittings, on 30 and 31 May 2016.
Upon arrival at the exercise area, Chief of Turkish General Staff General Hulusi Akar welcomed General Raheel Sharif. Along with Turkish troops, US, UK, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Azerbaijan, Poland, and a contingent of Pakistani Armed Forces participated in the joint exercises. Turkish President, Prime Minister and Minister for National Defence also attended the Exercise. Turkish President also held a separate meeting with General Raheel Sharif and thanked him for Pakistan’s participation and his personal presence for witnessing the exercise which he said, will enhance the existing close friendly ties between Pakistan and Turkey specially between the two Armed Forces. President also praised Pakistan Army’s accomplishments in Operation Zarb-e-Azb and contributions towards regional peace and stability. General Raheel Sharif appreciated Turkish armed forces for an outstanding conduct of the Exercise of such magnitude and scope.
In a bid to share military experiences and enhance training exchanges, Pakistan Army, in the last three years, has conducted 52 joint military exercises, both inland and abroad, with partner countries.