Despite decades of hostility and mistrust, India and China are steadily taking steps to enhance their military cooperation.

Earlier this year, India and China held their first-ever joint tactical exercises along the disputed Line of Actual Control (LAC). Now sources claim that both countries are gearing for the sixth edition of the 'Hand-in-Hand' (HiH) combat exercise, which will be held in the Indian city of Pune from November 15 to 27.

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The sixth edition of the HIH exercise will include China's Tibet Military Command and India's Maratha Light Infantry soldiers. Sources claim that during the joint military drill both armies will use the latest weaponry including 12.7mm anti-material rifles and flame-throwers to "corner-shooting systems" and laser-blinding devices.

The military exercise will also focus on "trans-national terrorism," as the challenge of terrorism looms large over both countries. India remains vulnerable to terrorism activities allegedly emanating from Pakistan, while China is concerned about the expanding influence of jihadist groups in Xinjiang province.

The bilateral relationship between the two Asian powerhouses has been underpinned by decades of festering border issues. China's decision to deepen its military and diplomatic ties with Pakistan has further complicated its ties with India.

China prevented India from blacklisting Pakistani terrorist Masood Azhar at the United Nations earlier this month. However, China has been hesitant in siding with Pakistan in the ongoing tension in the Kashmir region.

Last month, Beijing categorically stated that Kashmir issue is a bilateral issue that must be resolved peacefully by both countries. The northern Himalayan region of Kashmir is the main bone of contention between India and Pakistan.

The latest tension on Kashmir issue is showing no sign of abetting, with India carrying out a surgical attack in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) last month.   

TagsIndia and China, china, India and China Military Excercise, Indo-China Joint Military Drills