Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff, praised the "character, courage, and competence" of Pakistani soldiers in the fight against terrorism. He made the remarks while speaking at the closing ceremony of the 9th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) Competition on Monday, ISPR said. The competition is a tough 60-hour patrolling exercise held from February 5 to 9 in Punjab’s semi-mountainous terrain. It helps improve military skills through sharing tactical ideas and best practices. This year, 19 countries participated, including the USA, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Bangladesh. Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand joined as observers. Sixteen domestic teams from the army and navy also took part. Field Marshal Munir praised the teams for "exceptional professionalism, physical and mental endurance, operational competence and high morale". He stressed the value of such multinational events for strengthening cooperation and adapting to modern warfare. The ISPR called PATS a prestigious exercise that promotes professional excellence and team spirit. Awards were given to outstanding performers. International defence attachés praised the high standards of the exercise. Separately, the CDF visited the National Counter Terrorism Centre in Pabbi. There, he saw training activities and the new Tactical Simulator. He praised the troops and technical teams and said simulator-based training is vital to support traditional methods.