Kazakhstan Strengthens Armed Forces

KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 (Bernama) -- The Republic of Kazakhstan has modernised its Armed Forces and held military exercises with Central Asian nations to face the challenges of the new century. Kazakhstan Defence Minister Adilbek Dzhaksybekov said they also held a joint training exercise with members of the Joint Security Agreement(PPKB) Russia, Kyrgystan and Tajikstan, last September, called 'Centr 2011.' "The Armed Forces are expected to take part in an exercise with PPKB members 'Interaction 2012' in Armenia this coming September," he said in a speech in conjunction with the 20th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A statement on the event was issued by the embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, here, Tuesday. He said Kazakhstan would play host to a peacekeeping exercise together with members of PPKB in October. "Other than taking part in activities carried out by PPKB, the Kazakhstan Armed Forces also often conducted drills with armed forces of other nations. In June, Tajikstan will organise 'Peace Mission 2012' with the support of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Kazakhstan and Russia would hold a tactical exercise 'Aldaspan 2012' this summer, he added. -- BERNAMA