China and Pakistan's air forces jointly began training exercises on Saturday as the militaries of the two countries strengthen their operational ties, the Chinese defense ministry said on its website.

Reports said the relationship between the two nations has been strengthened by common goals, one of which is the desire to restrict US influence in Asia.

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"China's air force hopes to widen the scope of cooperation and dialogue with all countries and regions," the Chinese defense ministry said.

"Shaheen V"

The training exercises called "Shaheen V" will run until April 30. Beijing has been pushing Pakistan to neutralize its homegrown militants in the region of Xinjiang which has set up hiding places in border areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The border area is reportedly home to a mix of terror groups such as the Taliban and Al Qaeda.

Upgrade

The training is a way for Pakistan to upgrade its air force given its outmoded fleet of jet fighters from China and the US.

Pakistan military officials said the run-down fleet of jets can do very little to target domestic terrorists and protect itself from Indian craft.

Air force officials said they decided not to purchase more F16 aircraft from the US and will instead invest in China's JF-17 joint fighter which is jointly built by Islamabad.

Tags"Shaheen V", china, Pakistan, joint military exercises, air forces, Chinese Defense Ministry, F16 jet fighter, JF17