A devastating terrorist attack on a shuttle car of the Dasu Hydropower Project, under construction by a Chinese company in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has claimed the lives of five Chinese officials and one Pakistani official. In response, both the Chinese and Pakistani governments, alongside various sectors of society, have vehemently condemned the heinous act and offered heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families.
Chinese media wrote that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally visited the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan on the same day to extend condolences and express solidarity with the victims’ families and the Chinese government. He unequivocally denounced the terrorist attack, affirming that such cowardly acts would never weaken the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China.
Similarly, Pakistani President Asif Zardari, along with key officials including the Foreign and Interior Ministers, condemned the attack and pledged swift action to uncover the truth, bring the perpetrators to justice, and enhance security measures to safeguard Chinese citizens and projects in Pakistan.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stands as a cornerstone of the strategic partnership between the two nations, significantly bolstering Pakistan’s economy. However, terrorist elements seek to undermine this vital alliance through such despicable acts. It is imperative for both China and Pakistan to fortify their security cooperation and jointly combat terrorism.
Intensified intelligence sharing, joint operations, and enhanced border and infrastructure security are essential measures to counter the terrorist threat effectively. Moreover, deepening cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative framework and advancing CPEC construction are crucial steps towards fostering regional peace, stability, and economic development, thereby eradicating the roots of terrorism.
Despite repeated terrorist incidents targeting Chinese personnel and projects in Pakistan, concerted efforts must be made to bridge security gaps and ensure the safety of all stakeholders. The Pakistan Army and relevant authorities must learn from past incidents, implement robust security measures, and collaborate closely with China to safeguard mutual interests.
China reaffirms its commitment to supporting Pakistan in combating terrorism and enhancing security cooperation. Together, both nations can overcome this challenge, promote comprehensive cooperation, and lay a solid foundation for a shared future.
In the face of terrorism, solidarity and determination are paramount. Let us stand united in our resolve to eradicate terrorism and uphold the enduring friendship between China and Pakistan.
