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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What impact does China’s support for Pakistan in combating terrorism have on regional stability in South Asia?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Chen, Expert in International Relations and South Asia**
**Moderator:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Chen. The recent statement from the Chinese government reaffirming its support for Pakistan in combating terrorism has raised several discussions. What is your view on the significance of China’s commitment to Pakistan in this context?
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me. China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in its fight against terrorism is significant for several reasons. First, it highlights the depth of their bilateral relations, especially in light of recent attacks that threaten Chinese nationals and infrastructure in Pakistan. These incidents not only have human consequences but also pose risks to the wider economic interests China has in the region.
**Moderator:** Recently, a suicide attack in Karachi resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals, and the Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility. How does this incident affect China’s perception of security in Pakistan?
**Dr. Chen:** Such attacks undoubtedly raise security concerns for China. The targeting of Chinese nationals, particularly in projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), can undermine China’s strategic investments. As China’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian stated, safeguarding Chinese citizens abroad is paramount. This incident may lead China to enhance its security measures and response strategies in Pakistan.
**Moderator:** Lin Jian emphasized that terrorism is a ‘common enemy of mankind.’ What does this suggest about China’s broader approach to international terrorism?
**Dr. Chen:** This statement reflects a growing sentiment among nations that terrorism transcends borders and requires a unified approach. China appears to be positioning itself as a leader in the fight against terrorism, advocating for international cooperation. However, it’s also essential to recognize that China’s definition of terrorism often aligns with its interests, particularly concerning separatist movements in regions like Xinjiang.
**Moderator:** China and Pakistan are labeled as strong strategic cooperation partners. How will this recent event influence their long-term partnership?
**Dr. Chen:** The partnership is likely to strengthen in the wake of these challenges. China will likely increase its military and intelligence support to Pakistan as part of a broader strategy to stabilize the region and protect its investments. However, Pakistan will need to demonstrate its effectiveness in combating these threats to maintain China’s confidence.
**Moderator:** what implications might this have for the international community’s role in combating terrorism, especially concerning Pakistan and China?
**Dr. Chen:** The international community’s responsibility in combating terrorism is shout out clearly by Lin Jian. However, the approach can vary significantly depending on the geopolitical context. While China seeks to present itself as part of the solution, it will also need to engage constructively with other nations to address underlying issues driving terrorism in the region. This might involve dialogue with other stakeholders such as the United States and India, aimed at achieving long-term peace and stability.
**Moderator:** Thank you, Dr. Chen, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue.
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me.
