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 can the international community effectively collaborate with Pakistan to combat terrorist threats?
**Interview with Dr. Suman Thakur, South Asian Security Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thakur. Recently, the Chinese government reiterated its support for Pakistan in fighting terrorism, particularly following a tragic incident in Karachi. What significance does this support hold for Pakistan?
**Dr. Thakur:** Thank you for having me. China’s support is crucial for Pakistan, especially in the context of rising security threats. The recent suicide attack near Jinnah International Airport underscores the vulnerability of Chinese nationals in Pakistan. By backing Pakistan publicly, China is not only reaffirming their strong diplomatic ties but also ensuring the safety of its citizens and investments in the region.
**Editor:** The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack. How does this factor into the broader context of terrorism in Pakistan?
**Dr. Thakur:** The BLA has a history of targeting Chinese nationals as a way to express its opposition to Chinese investment in the region. This highlights a significant challenge for Pakistan, which is trying to balance economic partnerships and internal security. The Chinese government’s swift response signifies its resolve to combat any threats to its nationals, which could lead to increased pressure on the Pakistani government to address these insurgent groups.
**Editor:** Lin Jian emphasized a collective responsibility in the fight against terrorism. In your opinion, what steps can the international community take to better support Pakistan in this struggle?
**Dr. Thakur:** Cooperation is essential. The international community could enhance intelligence sharing, provide logistical assistance in counter-terrorism operations, and support local law enforcement to improve security frameworks. Additionally, countries like China can play a crucial role in facilitating economic development in Pakistan, as addressing socio-economic issues can alleviate some of the root causes of terrorism.
**Editor:** With the current geopolitical dynamics, how do you see China-Pakistan relations evolving in the coming years?
**Dr. Thakur:** I believe these ties will strengthen, particularly as both nations emphasize their strategic cooperation against terrorism. China’s Belt and Road Initiative will continue to integrate with Pakistan’s economic agenda, enabling developmental projects that could foster stability. However, the persistence of terrorist threats will test their partnership. Pakistan must demonstrate its capacity to secure investments while countering these threats to maintain Chinese confidence.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Thakur, for your insights. It’s clear that the fight against terrorism remains a critical issue for both Pakistan and its allies.
**Dr. Thakur:** Thank you for having me. It’s an important conversation that needs ongoing attention.