Islamabad, Aug 28: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has condemned recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan, attributing them to efforts aimed at disrupting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and undermining development projects. In a statement to his cabinet, Sharif declared that the attacks are intended to halt the progress of CPEC and create discord between Islamabad and Beijing.
The attacks, which began on Sunday, resulted in the deaths of 73 people, including civilians and security personnel. The violence is being described as the most extensive in years, carried out by ethnic militants seeking Balochistan’s secession from Pakistan. The province, rich in resources and hosting significant China-led initiatives such as a major port and a gold and copper mine, has been a focal point of these attacks.
In response, China has expressed strong condemnation of the violence and reaffirmed its support for Pakistan’s counter-terrorism measures. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian assured that Beijing is prepared to bolster counter-terrorism cooperation with Pakistan to ensure regional stability.
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the coordinated assaults on police stations, railway lines, and highways. These attacks involved hundreds of militants, including seven suicide bombers. In retaliation, Pakistani military operations have killed 21 militants.
The ongoing violence highlights the security challenges faced by Chinese workers and investments in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, where previous attacks have targeted key projects, including the Gwadar port.