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 does Dr. Sarah Khan view the implications of China’s support for Pakistan in the fight against terrorism?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Khan: Expert on China-Pakistan Relations and Counterterrorism**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Khan. With the recent announcement from the Chinese government regarding their support for Pakistan in the fight against terrorism, how do you see the implications of this commitment?
**Dr. Khan:** Thank you for having me. The recent reaffirmation of support by China signals a significant moment in their strategic relationship with Pakistan. China views Pakistan as a crucial partner in its regional strategy and is particularly concerned about the safety of its nationals and investments, especially following the tragic events in Karachi.
**Editor:** The suicide attack near Jinnah International Airport is alarming. How do you think this incident will affect Chinese investments and citizens in Pakistan?
**Dr. Khan:** Incidents like the one in Karachi can indeed create apprehension among Chinese nationals and businesses operating in Pakistan. However, China’s strong commitment to protecting its citizens and interests abroad suggests that we may see heightened security measures and possibly an increase in defensive investments. China is likely to respond robustly to ensure the safety of its expatriates and projects in Pakistan.
**Editor:** The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack. How do you think this affects the overall security situation in Pakistan, particularly for foreign nationals?
**Dr. Khan:** The BLA’s actions highlight the ongoing challenges in Pakistan regarding internal security. Such groups pose a significant threat not just to domestic stability but also to foreign investments. However, the Pakistani government, with the backing of allies like China, is under pressure to take decisive action against such groups. This commitment could lead to enhanced military and intelligence cooperation between China and Pakistan.
**Editor:** Lin Jian emphasized that terrorism is a common enemy of mankind and that mutual cooperation is essential. What role do you see international cooperation playing in combating terrorism?
**Dr. Khan:** International collaboration is vital to effectively combat terrorism. The fight against terrorism requires shared intelligence, joint operations, and a united front from all nations. China’s assertion of solidarity with Pakistan is a step toward fostering a regional approach to security that could involve other neighboring countries and allies as well.
**Editor:** Moving forward, what do you believe will be the most significant areas of cooperation between China and Pakistan in light of these events?
**Dr. Khan:** Beyond security concerns, I anticipate that economic development will remain a primary focus. Efforts to improve infrastructure, as seen in projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), will likely continue to be prioritized. China’s holistic approach of strengthening economic ties while ensuring security creates a multifaceted partnership that addresses both countries’ essential needs.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Khan, for your insights on this pressing issue. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Khan:** My pleasure! Thank you for having me.