China, India begin anti-terror training drill

CHENGDU, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese and Indian armies started a joint anti-terrorism military training drill in southwest China's Sichuan Province on Tuesday.

During the training, code-named "Hand-in-Hand 2013," participating soldiers will conduct drills in tactical hand signals, arrest and escort, hostage rescue and joint attack, as well as a comprehensive anti-terror combat drill.

China and India each sent one company of 144 soldiers to participate in the drill.

Yang Jinshan, head of a Chinese military observer delegation and deputy commander of the Chengdu Military Area Command of the People's Liberation Army of China, said the training is intended to exchange anti-terror experiences, enhance mutual understanding and trust, and boost cooperation between the Chinese and Indian armies.

China and India conducted their last joint anti-terror training in Belgaum, India, five years ago. The first such drill was held in southwest China's Yunnan Province in 2007.