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The recent suicide bombing in Karachi, Pakistan, which tragically claimed the lives of two Chinese nationals, has cast a dark shadow over the already strained relationship between China and Pakistan. The attack, claimed by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), targeted a convoy carrying Chinese personnel from the Port Qasim Electric Power Company, highlighting the growing security concerns surrounding Chinese interests in Pakistan. The incident has prompted China to issue a strong condemnation, demanding swift action from the Pakistani government to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and projects in the country.
This attack is not an isolated incident. It follows a pattern of violence targeting Chinese nationals and projects in Pakistan, most notably the deadly explosion in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in March 2024, which killed five Chinese engineers. The BLA has been a vocal critic of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), viewing it as a threat to Balochistan’s autonomy and resources. The organization has repeatedly targeted infrastructure projects and personnel associated with CPEC, aiming to disrupt China’s growing economic and strategic influence in the region.
The latest attack in Karachi is likely to further escalate tensions between China and Pakistan. China, a major investor in Pakistan’s infrastructure, is likely to apply increased pressure on the Pakistani government to strengthen security measures for its citizens and projects. The incident also raises concerns about the effectiveness of Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in the face of persistent threats from groups like the BLA. The Pakistani government faces a difficult task in balancing its economic interests with its commitment to combating terrorism, particularly when those interests are perceived as a threat by some groups.
Moving forward, China is likely to demand a more robust security framework from Pakistan, including increased intelligence sharing and enhanced security measures around Chinese personnel and projects. The incident also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of CPEC, as the growing security risks pose a significant challenge to the project’s success. The future of Sino-Pakistan relations will hinge on Pakistan’s ability to address the security concerns of its Chinese partner, ensuring the safety of Chinese citizens and investments while safeguarding its own territorial integrity.
Source: China condemns Karachi blast, asks Pakistan to ensure safety of Chinese people