China Supports Pakistan to Fight Terrorism”/>THE Chinese government affirms its support for Pakistan to eradicate terrorism.
“China will continue to support Pakistan in fighting terrorism,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian at a press conference in Beijing, on Monday (11/11).
Previously, on October 6 2024, there was a suicide attack near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan which resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals.
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a banned group that previously targeted Chinese nationals in Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the attack.
“We are steadfast in our commitment to protecting the safety and security of Chinese citizens, projects and institutions overseas,” Lin Jian added.
China and Pakistan, said Lin Jian, have the determination and capability to thwart any attempts to harm Sino-Pakistan relations and ensure that terrorists will pay the price.
“Terrorism is a common enemy of mankind, it is the international community’s shared responsibility to fight terrorism and prevent tragedies from happening again,” said Lin Jian.
Lin Jian also said that China and Pakistan were strong strategic cooperation partners.
“Our strong friendship is deeply rooted among our people. Attempts to undermine mutual trust and cooperation between the two countries will not succeed,” said Lin Jian.
China, Lin Jian said, will continue to support Pakistan in developing its economy and society and improving people’s lives.
“We will firmly implement cooperation with Pakistan in various fields for the benefit of both nations,” said Lin Jian.
Previously, on November 9 2024, at least 26 people were killed and dozens of others were injured due to a bomb explosion at a train station in the capital of Balochistan Province, Quetta.
Pakistan has been hit by 785 terrorist attacks during the first 10 months of 2024, resulting in 951 deaths and 966 injuries. October 2024 became the second deadliest month in 2024 as the number of victims increased to 198 people.
The dead included 98 terrorists, 62 security officers and 38 civilians.
The attacks reflect continuing high levels of violence across the country, according to a report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, an Islamabad-based strategy body.
The BLA group itself accuses China of exploiting mineral-rich resources in the southwestern province of Balochistan.
Balochistan Province is the largest province in Pakistan and borders Iran and Afghanistan. The region has a strategic position due to its rich reserves of copper, zinc and natural gas.
The province is also an important route in the mega project worth 64 billion US dollars (around IDR 1 quadrillion), namely the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor (PCEC).
The corridor aims to connect China’s strategic northwestern Xinjiang Province with the port of Gwadar in Balochistan through a network of roads, railways and pipelines for the transportation of cargo, oil and gas.
Balochistan separatists, especially the BLA, which is suspected of being involved in the recent kidnapping and killing of Chinese workers, oppose the project. (Ant/Z-6)
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How might the relationship between Pakistan and China evolve in response to internal security challenges?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Ahmed, International Relations Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ahmed. China’s recent commitment to support Pakistan in combating terrorism has generated significant discussion. What are your thoughts on this development?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Thank you for having me. This commitment from China is not surprising, given the longstanding strategic partnership between Beijing and Islamabad. It highlights China’s prioritization of protecting its nationals abroad, especially in regions where there is perceived instability, such as Pakistan.
**Editor:** Lin Jian, the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, emphasized the importance of collective action against terrorism. How do you view this perspective in the context of international relations?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Lin Jian’s remarks reflect a broader realization that terrorism poses a shared threat, transcending national borders. This acknowledgment fosters collaboration among nations to develop cohesive strategies. However, it also raises questions about how different countries define and address terrorism, as some may perceive double standards at play.
**Editor:** The Balochistan Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for attacks on Chinese nationals. How does this particular group fit within the larger narrative of terrorism in Pakistan?
**Dr. Ahmed:** The BLA’s activities underscore the complex dynamics of terrorism in Pakistan, where local grievances often fuel violence against foreign entities. This situation complicates China’s investments and initiatives in the region. It also presents Pakistan with the challenge of balancing internal security with the need for foreign investment and cooperation.
**Editor:** Given the recent violence, including a tragic bombing at a train station, what measures do you believe are necessary for Pakistan and China to enhance security for Chinese citizens?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Strengthening intelligence-sharing and enhancing local security measures are crucial. Additionally, Pakistan needs to address the underlying socio-political issues that lead to extremism. China’s role should also involve supporting Pakistan in these areas, not just militarily but also economically and socially to address root causes.
**Editor:** what does the future hold for Pakistan-China relations in light of these recent developments?
**Dr. Ahmed:** As both countries navigate these challenges, I believe their relationship will deepen. China is likely to continue investing in Pakistan, both for economic reasons and to secure its own citizens’ safety. However, Pakistan must also demonstrate its capability in managing these threats effectively to maintain this vital partnership.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Ahmed, for your insights on this evolving situation. Your perspective on the implications of China’s support for Pakistan is invaluable as we continue to monitor these developments.
