Two Chinese nationals killed in a bombing near Karachi Airport, raising security concerns for foreign workers in Pakistan.
At a Glance
- Baloch Liberation Army claims responsibility for attack on Chinese workers’ convoy
- Two Chinese killed, eight others injured, including Pakistani police officers
- Attack occurs days before Pakistan hosts Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit
- Incident highlights ongoing security challenges for Chinese-funded projects in Pakistan
Deadly Attack Targets Chinese Workers Near Karachi Airport
A bombing near Karachi’s main airport has resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals and injuries to eight others, including Pakistani police officers. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group, claimed responsibility for the attack, which targeted a convoy of Chinese workers. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of foreign workers in Pakistan, particularly those involved in Chinese-funded projects.
The attack occurred just days before Pakistan was set to host a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, intensifying worries about security for high-profile events and foreign visitors in the country. The Chinese Embassy in Islamabad confirmed that the victims were staffers from the Port Qasim Electric Power Company, a joint China-Pakistan venture.
An explosion at the Karachi, Pakistan, airport kills 2 workers from China and injures others https://t.co/SgS4ANQjn0
— WRAL NEWS in NC (@WRAL) October 7, 2024
BLA’s History of Targeting Chinese Interests
The Baloch Liberation Army, primarily based in Balochistan, has a history of targeting foreigners and security forces in Pakistan, with a particular focus on Chinese nationals involved in development projects. The group, designated as a terrorist organization by both Pakistan and the United States, is estimated to have around 3,000 fighters. “We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims, both Chinese and Pakistani, and offer prayers for the swift recovery of the injured,” said the ministry in a statement. “We remain resolute in bringing to justice those responsible for this cowardly attack.”
This latest incident follows a pattern of attacks on Chinese interests in Pakistan, including a 2018 assault on the Chinese Consulate in Karachi and a 2021 bombing that killed nine Chinese workers. The BLA has consistently warned against Chinese involvement in Balochistan, where they seek independence and claim discrimination by the central government.
Security Challenges for Chinese Projects in Pakistan
The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges facing Chinese-funded projects in Pakistan, particularly those under the Belt and Road Initiative. Thousands of Chinese workers are present in Pakistan as part of this initiative, making them potential targets for separatist groups like the BLA.
“I strongly condemn this heinous act and offer my heartfelt condolences to the Chinese leadership & the people of China, particularly the families of the victims,” he wrote on the social media platform X. “Pakistan stands committed to safeguarding our Chinese friends,” he added. “We will leave no stone unturned to ensure their security & well-being.”
Balochistan, rich in natural resources, has an ethnic Baloch minority that feels marginalized by the central government. This sentiment has fueled separatist movements and attacks on what they perceive as symbols of exploitation, including Chinese-backed projects. The security issues have impacted China’s investments in Pakistan, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative.
Government Response and Future Concerns
Pakistani authorities have strongly condemned the attack, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif describing the perpetrators as “enemies of Pakistan” and vowing to bring them to justice. The government has promised enhanced security measures for Chinese nationals working in the country. However, analysts suggest that further attacks could occur, particularly around the upcoming summit, due to ongoing opposition to Chinese involvement in Balochistan.
As Pakistan grapples with these security challenges, the safety of foreign workers, especially Chinese nationals, remains a critical concern. The incident near Karachi Airport serves as a stark reminder of the volatile security situation and the need for heightened vigilance to protect both foreign investments and the lives of those working on international projects in the region.
