China Demands Justice Following Attack on Chinese Nationals in Pakistan
Two Chinese nationals were killed in Karachi following a terrorist attack targeting vehicles associated with a Chinese-funded electric power project. The Chinese embassy has called for a thorough investigation and punishment of attackers. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan’s Prime Minister condemned the act and emphasized ongoing investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice.
In a tragic incident on Sunday night in Karachi, Pakistan, two Chinese nationals were killed and several others wounded, prompting a strong diplomatic response from China. The assault, described by the Chinese embassy as a “terrorist attack,” targeted vehicles belonging to a Chinese-funded electric power company. In light of this violence, the embassy has urged the Pakistani government to carry out a comprehensive investigation and ensure that those responsible are “severely punished.” They emphasized the necessity of implementing robust measures to safeguard Chinese citizens, institutions, and investments operating in Pakistan. The embassy expressed deep condolences to the victims from both nations and sympathized with the injured and their families while noting their ongoing cooperation with Pakistani authorities in response to the crisis. The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, publicly expressed his sorrow over the incident, characterizing it as “heinous” and an affront that could not be attributed to Pakistani citizens, but rather to enemies of the state. He confirmed that investigations are underway to identify those involved and hold them accountable. Furthermore, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, has claimed responsibility for the attack, indicating they utilized a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device to target a convoy of Chinese engineers and investors.
The incident occurs amid ongoing tensions in Pakistan regarding the security of foreign investments, particularly those linked to Chinese developmental projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This corridor represents a significant $62 billion investment aimed at enhancing infrastructure and economic ties between the two nations. However, the Baloch Liberation Army has increasingly targeted Chinese interests in a bid for autonomy in the Balochistan region, home to a rich array of resources yet plagued by militancy and unrest. Such attacks reflect the complex interplay of geopolitical stakes and local identities within Pakistan, posing a critical challenge to the government’s ability to ensure safety and security for foreign entities involved in national development initiatives.
In summary, the attack that led to the deaths of two Chinese nationals highlights the precarious security situation faced by foreign investments in Pakistan, particularly under the ambit of CPEC. The Chinese government’s call for punitive measures underscores the urgency of addressing such threats to protect its citizens and interests abroad. As investigations proceed, it remains crucial for the Pakistani authorities to demonstrate their commitment to upholding security and fostering a stable environment for foreign investors, while addressing the underlying issues driving separatist sentiments in regions like Balochistan.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
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