The Chinese government has sent a team of investigators to Pakistan to participate in the investigation of a recent suicide attack that killed five Chinese nationals. The attack took place near the Dasu Dam in northwest Pakistan, where the Chinese engineers and workers were heading when a suicide bomber targeted their vehicle. In addition to the Chinese victims, a Pakistani driver was also killed in the attack. Beijing has condemned the incident and called for a thorough investigation to ensure the safety of its nationals working on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi briefed the Chinese investigators on Pakistan’s progress in investigating the attack, as no group has claimed responsibility so far. This is not the first time Chinese nationals working on CPEC-related projects in Pakistan have been targeted. In July 2021, a similar attack resulted in the deaths of nine Chinese nationals among a total of 13 casualties. Following that incident, Chinese companies temporarily suspended their work in the region. The repeated attacks on Chinese workers highlight the need for improved security measures to protect foreign nationals in Pakistan.
The arrival of the Chinese investigators underscores the close relationship between China and Pakistan, particularly in the realm of economic cooperation. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a significant infrastructure project that aims to improve connectivity between the two countries through the development of road, rail, and energy infrastructure. The recent attack has raised concerns about the safety of Chinese workers involved in CPEC projects and the potential impact on bilateral relations between China and Pakistan. Both countries have a vested interest in ensuring the security and success of the economic corridor.
Pakistan has also been conducting its own investigations into the attack, as part of efforts to address the security challenges in the region. The government has shared preliminary findings with the Chinese embassy and is working to identify the perpetrators behind the attack. Enhancing security measures along the CPEC route and implementing stricter safety protocols for foreign workers are crucial steps to prevent future incidents. The collaboration between China and Pakistan in investigating the attack reflects their commitment to maintaining stability and security in the region.
The joint investigation by Chinese and Pakistani officials highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of foreign nationals working in high-risk areas. Both countries have a shared interest in countering extremism and violence that threaten the progress of infrastructure projects like CPEC. By working together to investigate the recent attack, China and Pakistan are sending a strong message that they will not tolerate acts of terrorism that target innocent civilians. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in identifying the perpetrators and holding them accountable for their actions.
As the investigation into the attack continues, both China and Pakistan are focused on enhancing security measures and protecting the interests of their nationals. The recent incidents have underscored the need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to prevent future attacks on Chinese workers in Pakistan. The collaboration between the two countries in addressing the security challenges in the region highlights the strength of their strategic partnership and their determination to overcome shared threats. By working together, China and Pakistan can strengthen their efforts to combat terrorism and promote peace and stability in the region.
