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 recent terrorist attacks influence future Chinese investments in Pakistan under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Chen, Expert on Sino-Pak Relations**
**Editor:** Welcome to today’s discussion. We’re joined by Dr. Sarah Chen, a renowned expert on Sino-Pak relations. Thank you for being with us, Dr. Chen.
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me.
**Editor:** Let’s start with recent developments. The Chinese government reaffirmed its support for Pakistan in combating terrorism, especially after the tragic suicide attack near Jinnah International Airport. Why is this support so significant?
**Dr. Chen:** This support is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the deep strategic partnership between China and Pakistan, particularly when it comes to security. After the attack that resulted in the loss of Chinese lives, Beijing is sending a strong message that it stands firmly with Islamabad in the fight against terrorism, especially groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army which has targeted Chinese interests.
**Editor:** The BLA has been a persistent threat. How do you see this affecting China’s investments in Pakistan?
**Dr. Chen:** Such incidents create concern for foreign investments, particularly in infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). However, China’s commitment to protecting its citizens and projects in Pakistan indicates that it is willing to enhance security measures, which may mitigate these risks. Ultimately, Beijing likely sees long-term potential in a stable Pakistan, both for its investments and regional influence.
**Editor:** Lin Jian mentioned that terrorism is a “common enemy of mankind.” What does this imply for international cooperation in fighting terrorism?
**Dr. Chen:** This statement highlights the need for global solidarity against terrorism. China’s stance suggests it is positioning itself as a leader in the fight against extremism, calling for collaborative efforts. This could lead to more international dialogues and partnerships aimed at countering terrorism, not just in South Asia but globally.
**Editor:** Lastly, with regional dynamics constantly shifting, what does the future hold for Sino-Pak relations in the context of security and economic collaboration?
**Dr. Chen:** The future looks promising but will depend on how both nations navigate security challenges. China’s commitment to continue supporting Pakistan economically is crucial; however, dealing effectively with terrorism will be key to fostering a secure environment for investment. Both governments have a vested interest in maintaining this partnership, which they see as advantageous for regional stability.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your insights on this complex relationship.
**Dr. Chen:** You’re welcome. It’s been a pleasure to discuss this important topic.
