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 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 are the main challenges and opportunities in the Sino-Pakistani counter-terrorism cooperation?
**Interview with Dr. Amina Malik, Expert on Sino-Pakistani Relations**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Malik. Let’s begin with the recent statements from the Chinese Foreign Ministry regarding support for Pakistan in combating terrorism. What do you make of this affirmation from China?
**Dr. Malik:** Thank you for having me. The commitment from China is significant, especially in light of recent events like the tragic suicide bombing in Karachi, which resulted in the loss of Chinese lives. China and Pakistan share a deep-rooted partnership, and Beijing’s support signals its desire to protect its investments and initiatives within Pakistan, as well as to bolster regional stability.
**Interviewer:** That’s an important point. The Balochistan Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the October attack. How does this impact China-Pakistan relations?
**Dr. Malik:** The BLA’s claim exemplifies the ongoing security challenges that both nations face. These attacks can strain bilateral ties, and China’s swift reaction is an attempt to reassure its citizens and demonstrate its ongoing commitment to Pakistan. It underscores the complexity of balancing economic investment with security concerns in volatile regions.
**Interviewer:** Lin Jian stated, “Terrorism is a common enemy of mankind.” In your view, what role does international cooperation play in effectively combating terrorism in this context?
**Dr. Malik:** International cooperation is vital. Terrorism knows no borders, and coordinated efforts are essential for prevention and response. China’s approach emphasizes a collective responsibility, which is crucial, especially within a geopolitical context where nations must work together to ensure regional security and economic stability.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what might this support mean for Pakistan’s development efforts beyond security concerns?
**Dr. Malik:** Economic support is intertwined with security. If terrorism is reduced, development projects can flourish. China’s commitment to improving the lives of Pakistanis—through infrastructure projects, trade, and investment—depends on a stable environment. Thus, this support may pave the way for more comprehensive collaborations in health, education, and economic growth, enhancing the overall bilateral relationship.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Malik, for sharing your insights on this critical issue.
**Dr. Malik:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss these important topics.
