Chinese envoy frustrated over CPEC security issues

ISLAMABAD:

In a rare public statement, the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, expressed his frustration over two deadly terrorist attacks within six months, calling them unacceptable and urging the Pakistani government to take action against all anti-China terrorist groups. Speaking at a seminar titled “China at 75,” he emphasized that security concerns are the primary obstacle to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), stating, “Without a safe environment, nothing can be achieved.”

During the seminar, organized by the Pakistan China Institute led by Senator Mushahid Hussain, Ambassador Jiang made two remarks—once before Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s speech and again afterward in response to Dar’s comments about security for Chinese nationals. He conveyed that it was “very unacceptable” for Chinese nationals to face two attacks in such a short time, resulting in casualties. He hoped that Pakistan would enhance security measures to protect Chinese personnel, institutions, and projects.

Ambassador Jiang also reiterated the importance of security during discussions with Pakistani leaders, noting that President Xi Jinping prioritizes the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan. Jiang clarified that the Chinese leadership had previously informed Prime Minister Sharif that security issues deter Chinese investments, and emphasized that without addressing these concerns, Chinese personnel would not be dispatched.

The ambassador’s comments come in light of two recent attacks targeting Chinese nationals, one in March and another in October, just days before the Chinese Premier’s visit to Pakistan. His right to reply following the Deputy Prime Minister’s speech indicated differing views on security between the two countries.

Dar assured that Pakistan is taking steps to combat terrorism, with updates to be shared in an upcoming meeting between President Asif Zardari and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Jiang further highlighted that Premier Li has stressed the importance of security for economic cooperation and reiterated China’s commitment to deepening economic ties with Pakistan, while hoping for a safer environment for Chinese nationals.

Dar, during his speech, also criticized the United States for its attempts to hinder China’s economic rise and condemned the previous Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government’s policies, which he believes contributed to the current security situation. He blamed the revival of terrorism on the PTI’s friendly approach towards Afghanistan, mentioning the release of hardened criminals and the return of terrorists to Pakistan after border openings.

On the topic of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, who is imprisoned in the U.S., Dar noted that the Pakistani government is advocating for her pardon and has formed a committee to lobby U.S. parliamentarians for her release.

Lastly, Dar condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, stating that Pakistan is one of the few countries vocally supporting the Palestinian cause and has sent significant aid to Gaza, while also hosting Palestinian medical students in Pakistan to continue their education.
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