The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan has confirmed that an attack on a convoy near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport left at least two Chinese nationals dead and one injured. The assault, occurring around 11 pm on Sunday, targeted personnel from the Port Qasim Electric Power Company, heightening security concerns for Chinese projects in Pakistan.
Attack Details and Casualties
Geo News reported that the attack, involving an improvised explosive device (IED), injured at least 10 people and damaged ten vehicles, four of which were completely destroyed by fire. In a statement, the Chinese Embassy condemned the attack as “terrorist” and urged Pakistan to conduct a thorough investigation, punish those responsible, and take further measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens, institutions, and investments within Pakistan.
The Balochistan Liberation Army’s (BLA) Involvement
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack. The BLA, which seeks independence for Balochistan province and views Chinese investments as exploitation of regional resources, has orchestrated numerous attacks on Chinese interests, including the 2021 and 2023 assaults near the China-backed Dasu hydropower project. The group has also specifically targeted Gwadar Port, a strategic Chinese project, accusing Beijing of aiding Islamabad in exploiting Balochistan’s resources.
Rising Security Concerns for Chinese Projects in Pakistan
The escalating attacks on Chinese projects have raised significant security concerns as Pakistan prepares to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The Chinese Embassy has advised all Chinese nationals, businesses, and projects to remain vigilant and enhance their security measures.
Historical Context of BLA Attacks on Chinese Interests
The BLA’s continued targeting of Chinese citizens and projects underscores a broader rebellion in Balochistan, a resource-rich but sparsely populated province bordering Iran and Afghanistan. Over recent months, the BLA has conducted large-scale attacks, including incidents that resulted in over 70 fatalities and attacks on non-local workers in Gwadar. Chinese engineers working on vital infrastructure, such as the Port Qasim project and hydropower facilities, have been frequent targets, reflecting the persistent threat to Chinese investments under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Implications for Pakistan-China Relations
With China a major stakeholder in Pakistan’s infrastructure development, the security of Chinese nationals has become a pressing diplomatic issue. Repeated BLA attacks have strained efforts to safeguard these projects, even as Islamabad pledges enhanced security to sustain China’s investments. As the SCO summit approaches, the pressure to address the insurgency’s impact on Chinese nationals and projects in Pakistan has intensified.
