Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) members have kicked off a joint anti-terrorism military drill in Tajikistan.

The opening ceremony for the "Peace Mission 2012" drill began on June 9, with the exercises starting immediately after. The drill involves more than 2,000 military personnel from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

It is a routine anti-terrorism drill launched under the SCO framework. It mainly focuses on preparation and implementation of joint anti-terrorism action in mountainous areas, in a simulated terrorist-inflicted regional crisis. Chinese Commander in Chief Liu Wanmin said the drill plays a significant role in deepening cooperation between the SCO members.