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 evolving relationship between China and Pakistan affect regional dynamics and relations with neighboring countries?
**Interview with Dr. Aisha Rahman, Expert on South Asian Geopolitics, Regarding China’s Support for Pakistan in Fighting Terrorism**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rahman. China recently reaffirmed its support for Pakistan in combating terrorism. What do you think are the implications of this support for regional stability?
**Dr. Rahman**: Thank you for having me. China’s support for Pakistan is significant, especially given the recent spike in violence against Chinese nationals in the region. This endorsement can enhance Pakistan’s anti-terrorism efforts, possibly leading to more coordinated actions against groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army. However, it could also heighten tensions with other neighboring countries concerned about China’s growing influence in South Asia.
**Editor**: In light of the recent suicide attack near Jinnah International Airport that resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals, how do you assess Pakistan’s security measures for foreign nationals?
**Dr. Rahman**: The attack highlights a critical gap in Pakistan’s current security framework. While Pakistan has historically focused on counter-terrorism operations, protecting foreign nationals, especially those involved in significant economic projects, remains a challenge. It’s imperative that they enhance their security protocols to ensure the safety of both their citizens and foreign partners.
**Editor**: The Chinese Foreign Ministry has stated that terrorism is a “common enemy of mankind.” How do you interpret this statement in the wider context of international cooperation against terrorism?
**Dr. Rahman**: That statement underscores a common rhetorical strategy used by nations to build alliances against a collective threat. It reflects an understanding that terrorism cannot be contained by a single nation, and global cooperation is essential. However, the challenge lies in aligning interests and ensuring that measures do not infringe upon human rights or lead to broader conflicts.
**Editor**: In your opinion, how could the bilateral relationship between China and Pakistan evolve in this context of increased support against terrorism?
**Dr. Rahman**: The relationship could strengthen further, particularly in terms of economic and military ties. As China continues to invest in Pakistan through initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, these cooperative measures against terrorism may also enhance their strategic partnership. However, that partnership should be carefully managed to avoid backlash from other regional players and maintain internal stability within Pakistan.
**Editor**: what should be the priority for Pakistan moving forward to ensure not just the safety of foreign nationals but also the overall security of the country?
**Dr. Rahman**: Pakistan must prioritize a multi-faceted approach that includes enhancing intelligence sharing, community engagement, and addressing the root causes of terrorism. This involves both local socio-economic development and a robust dialogue with neighboring countries to foster an environment of trust and cooperation. Only through comprehensive strategies can Pakistan ensure long-term safety and security for all.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Rahman, for your insights on this pressing issue. Your expertise is invaluable as we navigate these complex geopolitical landscapes.
**Dr. Rahman**: Thank you for having me, and for highlighting such an important topic.
