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 from 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 Rp. 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 transport 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 does China’s support for Pakistan in countering terrorism influence the broader geopolitical landscape in South Asia?
**Interview with Dr. Amina Zhao, Expert on Sino-Pak Relations**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Zhao. Given recent events, what can you tell us about China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in its fight against terrorism?
**Dr. Zhao:** Thank you for having me. China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan, especially in light of the recent suicide attack that tragically claimed the lives of two Chinese nationals, is significant. The Chinese government, as articulated by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian, has emphasized its unwavering support for Pakistan in combating terrorism. This cooperation is crucial, particularly considering the history of attacks targeting Chinese citizens by groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army.
**Editor:** Why is it important for China to invest so much in Pakistan’s security?
**Dr. Zhao:** China’s investment in Pakistan’s security is driven by multiple factors. Economically, China has significant interests in Pakistan, particularly through projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). A stable Pakistan is essential for the success of these initiatives. Moreover, regional stability is a geopolitical necessity for both nations as they seek to deter any threats to their sovereignty and strategic interests.
**Editor:** Lin Jian mentioned that terrorism is a common enemy. How do you see the international community’s role in addressing this issue?
**Dr. Zhao:** That’s an important point. Terrorism is indeed a global challenge, and it requires a coordinated international response. The notion that fighting terrorism is a shared responsibility can foster greater cooperation among countries. However, it also brings into question the consistency of different nations’ approaches. China is advocating for a unified effort to address terrorism, which might involve not only military and security measures but also addressing underlying socio-economic issues that fuel extremism.
**Editor:** What are the implications of China’s support on Sino-Pakistan relations moving forward?
**Dr. Zhao:** The implications are profound. China’s continued support is likely to solidify diplomatic ties and reinforce trust between the two nations. Lin Jian’s statements highlight that both countries are determined to thwart any attempts to damage their relationship. As they strengthen this strategic partnership, we can expect to see more collaborative efforts not just in security but also in economic development and social projects, aimed at improving the lives of citizens in both countries.
**Editor:** Lastly, how does this situation impact the regional dynamics in South Asia?
**Dr. Zhao:** China’s support for Pakistan can shift regional dynamics significantly. It may lead to a recalibration of relationships with neighboring countries, particularly India, which views China’s deepening ties with Pakistan with concern. As China positions itself as an essential ally for Pakistan, it may influence not only Pakistan’s internal policies but also its foreign relations, including its approach to India and the United States. This evolving landscape will require careful navigation by all regional stakeholders.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Zhao. It seems the situation is both delicate and pivotal for future relations in the region.
**Dr. Zhao:** Absolutely. Thank you for shedding light on these crucial issues.
