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 can Pakistan enhance its internal security measures to better protect foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens?
**Title: China’s Commitment to Combatting Terrorism in Pakistan: An Interview with Foreign Affairs Expert, Dr. Aisha Khan**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Khan. The recent affirmation by the Chinese government regarding its support for Pakistan in fighting terrorism has drawn considerable attention. What are your thoughts on this development?
**Dr. Aisha Khan:** Thank you for having me. This reaffirmation of support by China, especially following the tragic suicide attack near Jinnah International Airport, highlights the depth of the Sino-Pakistan relationship. China’s commitment to aiding Pakistan in combating terrorism is not just about security; it also reassures Chinese nationals operating in Pakistan amid rising threats.
**Editor:** Indeed, the recent attack by the Balochistan Liberation Army claimed two Chinese lives. How significant do you think this incident is in the larger context of terrorism in the region?
**Dr. Aisha Khan:** This incident is quite significant. It underscores the ongoing challenges Pakistan faces in securing its borders and ensuring safety for foreign nationals. The BLA’s targeting of Chinese citizens indicates a shift in focus towards foreign investors, which could potentially deter future investments from China if not addressed promptly. China’s proactive stance is crucial to maintain both economic ties and the safety of their citizens.
**Editor:** Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that “terrorism is a common enemy of mankind.” How do you interpret this statement in the context of international collaboration against terrorism?
**Dr. Aisha Khan:** This statement reflects a broader call for global solidarity against terrorism, highlighting that no country is immune to its threat. It’s an invitation for the international community to unite in sharing intelligence and resources to combat extremism effectively. The intertwined fates of nations connected by economic and strategic ties necessitate a cohesive approach to security.
**Editor:** Lin Jian also mentioned that both countries have the determination to protect their mutual interests. What impact do you foresee on Sino-Pakistan relations moving forward?
**Dr. Aisha Khan:** Sino-Pakistan relations are likely to strengthen as both countries reaffirm their commitments to cooperation. China’s willingness to support Pakistan economically while addressing safety concerns will further solidify diplomatic ties. However, Pakistan must enhance its internal security measures to reassure not just China, but all foreign investors.
**Editor:** Lastly, what measures do you think Pakistan should prioritize to improve security and tackle the roots of terrorism?
**Dr. Aisha Khan:** Pakistan needs to implement comprehensive counter-terrorism strategies focused on addressing both immediate security threats and the underlying socio-economic issues that fuel extremism. This includes improving intelligence-sharing, bolstering border security, and fostering community engagement to counter radicalization. Sustainable development will ultimately be key to creating a stable and secure environment.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Khan, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. Your perspective sheds light on the complexities of international relations and security in the region.
**Dr. Aisha Khan:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital to continue the conversation on safety and cooperation, especially in such challenging times.
