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.
news">Also read: China Fights Double Standards for Handling Terrorism
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.
news">Also read: A number of terrorist attacks in southwest Pakistan, 46 killed
“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.
news">Also read: 25 Countries with the Largest Population in 2023
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.
news">Also read: 70 Youth from Various Countries Participate in the 2024 ASEAN Future Leaders Summit
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)
#China #Supports #Pakistan #Fight #Terrorism
How does China view the role of international cooperation in combating terrorism, particularly in relation to groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army?
**Interview with Lin Jian, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Lin Jian. Recently, the Chinese government reaffirmed its commitment to support Pakistan in combating terrorism. Can you elaborate on the specifics of this support?
**Lin Jian**: Thank you for having me. China remains steadfast in its support for Pakistan in its fight against terrorism. We will continue to offer assistance in terms of intelligence sharing, training, and resources to strengthen Pakistan’s security capabilities. Our aim is to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and investments in the region.
**Interviewer**: Following the tragic suicide attack near Jinnah International Airport that claimed the lives of two Chinese nationals, what measures are being considered to enhance security for Chinese citizens in Pakistan?
**Lin Jian**: The attack underscored the need for strengthened security protocols. We are working closely with Pakistani authorities to improve security measures, particularly around Chinese personnel and projects. Our collaboration is key to preventing such incidents in the future.
**Interviewer**: The Balochistan Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. What is China’s perspective on groups like the BLA that pose threats to foreign nationals?
**Lin Jian**: We view terrorism as a common enemy and believe it is the international community’s responsibility to address it. Groups like the BLA that target civilians and disrupt peace will face consequences. China stands with Pakistan in ensuring that these organizations do not undermine our bilateral relations.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned the strong partnership between China and Pakistan. How do you envision the future of this relationship, especially in light of recent security challenges?
**Lin Jian**: Our relationship is based on mutual respect and shared goals. Despite challenges, our strategic cooperation will only grow stronger. We are committed to enhancing economic development and addressing security issues together, reaffirming our friendship amongst our people.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, what message do you want to convey to the international community regarding the fight against terrorism?
**Lin Jian**: Terrorism knows no borders, and it is our shared responsibility to combat this threat collectively. We urge the international community to unite against terrorism to prevent further tragedies and promote stability worldwide. Together, we can ensure a more secure future for all.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Lin Jian, for your insights. Your commitment to Pakistan’s security is evident, and we look forward to seeing positive developments in the Sino-Pakistan relationship.
**Lin Jian**: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure discussing these important matters.