Islamabad — Pakistan has strongly reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting Chinese nationals and strategic projects, underscoring its growing counter-terrorism capacity after security forces eliminated 216 terrorists in a sweeping six-day operation across Balochistan, restoring control in major urban centers and dismantling militant strongholds.
The renewed assurances came during an important high-level meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad on Thursday, where both sides reviewed the security situation in Balochistan and enhanced cooperation against terrorism.
According to an official statement from the Interior Ministry, Naqvi emphasized that the safety of Chinese citizens remained Pakistan’s top national priority and that no hostile force would be allowed to disrupt the enduring Pakistan–China strategic partnership.
“The safety of Chinese citizens and projects is of paramount importance. No enemy can undermine the Pakistan–China friendship. Providing maximum security to Chinese nationals is our top priority,” Naqvi said.
The meeting followed a wave of terrorist attacks in parts of Balochistan on January 31, which temporarily disrupted normal life across the province. However, Pakistan’s armed forces responded with decisive precision, launching coordinated operations that neutralized 216 militants in just six days — a display of operational strength that cleared major cities and reestablished state authority in sensitive regions.
Security officials say the rapid success of these operations reflects Pakistan’s enhanced intelligence coordination, improved tactical capabilities, and strengthened civil-military cooperation, particularly in areas vulnerable to foreign-sponsored militancy.
For years, militant groups operating in Balochistan have attempted to target infrastructure projects and foreign nationals, particularly Chinese workers associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship component of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative. Despite repeated provocations, Islamabad has continued to fortify security frameworks around key development zones, transport routes, and residential facilities.
According to data previously shared by the National Counter Terrorism Authority, 20 Chinese nationals were killed and 34 injured in terrorist incidents between 2021 and December 2024 — figures that Pakistani authorities describe as tragic but increasingly reflective of a threat that is being systematically dismantled.
During Thursday’s meeting, Ambassador Jiang strongly condemned the recent attacks on civilians and security personnel in Balochistan, expressing condolences to the families of victims.
“China stands in complete solidarity with the victims in this hour of grief. China condemns terrorism in all its forms and stands firmly with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism,” the ambassador said.
Naqvi, in turn, briefed the Chinese envoy on what he described as an “organized and premeditated” terror campaign in Balochistan, stressing that Pakistan’s swift and forceful response demonstrated the state’s capacity to neutralize threats before they could destabilize long-term development goals.
He also outlined a series of enhanced security measures being implemented nationwide, including the establishment of a specialized protection unit dedicated exclusively to safeguarding Chinese nationals and projects. The unit will be supported by modern surveillance systems, advanced equipment, and cooperation involving Chinese security technologies to improve counter-terror coordination.
Beyond physical security, both sides agreed to deepen intelligence sharing and expand collaboration in cybercrime prevention, reflecting the evolving nature of modern security threats.
The meeting also reaffirmed the broader strategic partnership between Islamabad and Beijing, with both sides expressing determination to strengthen cooperation across economic, security, and diplomatic fronts.
Analysts note that Pakistan’s recent counter-terrorism gains in Balochistan mark a turning point in stabilizing a province long targeted by militant networks seeking to sabotage regional connectivity projects. The swift clearance of major cities and militant hideouts has significantly reduced operational space for extremist groups.
More importantly, Pakistan’s assertive posture sends a strong message to hostile actors that attacks on Chinese interests will be met with overwhelming force.
Naqvi also briefed Ambassador Jiang on his recent successful visit to China, which further reinforced bilateral trust and strategic alignment.
In closing, the Chinese envoy thanked Pakistan for the robust security measures already in place, while Naqvi expressed gratitude for China’s consistent support during challenging times.
As Pakistan intensifies its counter-terror campaign and upgrades protective frameworks, officials insist the country now possesses both the will and capacity to guarantee the safety of Chinese nationals — ensuring that the Pakistan–China partnership remains resilient against all threats.