Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif plans to visit China next month to invigorate the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a key part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, recent terrorist activity targeting Chinese nationals and projects may shift the focus from economic collaboration to security concerns.
As preparations for Sharif’s first visit to China since his election win were underway, a terrorist attack in Basham targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers at the Dasu Hydroelectric project, resulting in six fatalities, including five Chinese nationals. This incident marks the latest effort to undermine China-Pakistan cooperation following attacks on the Gwadar Port Authority Complex and a Naval airbase.
Read: Five Chinese Engineers Killed in Suicide Bombing in Shangla, Pakistan
Security for Chinese initiatives and citizens is expected to dominate discussions during Sharif’s upcoming Beijing trip. China’s growing apprehension over the safety of its CPEC investments and nationals in Pakistan has been magnified by these assaults.
Notably, a 2021 suicide attack in Kohistan, targeting Dasu project engineers and halting work for months, prompted Pakistan to enhance security measures and accuse Indian and Afghan intelligence of orchestrating the violence. Despite these measures, the recurrence of attacks near the same location raises concerns over their effectiveness.
Pakistan has since established a dedicated army division for CPEC project security. Following the latest attack, both Pakistan’s civil and military leadership quickly condemned the violence, emphasizing their commitment to protecting Chinese interests.
Prime Minister Sharif visited the Chinese Embassy to offer condolences and ensure a thorough investigation and accountability. Pakistan’s Foreign Office condemned the attack and reaffirmed the nation’s determination to combat terrorism and support the Pakistan-China partnership. The statement emphasized the importance of the safety and security of Chinese nationals and projects in Pakistan, underscoring the strong bilateral friendship and cooperation.
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