Lahore: The Punjab government of Pakistan has initiated a plan to purchase bombproof vehicles aimed at strengthening the security of Chinese nationals engaged in various projects across the region, according to a report by Ary News.
Details reveal that the Punjab government has allocated 500 million Pakistani Rupees for these vehicles, following recommendations from the Inspector General of Police Punjab. In addition, the Inspector General has mandated comprehensive security measures for all Chinese nationals involved in sensitive projects, including those under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as well as other non-CPEC initiatives.
This decision follows heightened tensions between the traditionally close allies, China and Pakistan, particularly after the Chinese ambassador to Islamabad expressed concerns regarding the safety of Chinese workers involved in CPEC projects.
The urgency for enhanced security measures was underscored by a recent suicide bombing in Karachi, which targeted a convoy transporting Chinese nationals. The attack, which occurred late on a Sunday evening, resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals and injuries to ten others. Initial investigations indicate that the suicide bomber positioned themselves near Jinnah Airport, waiting for the Chinese convoy before executing the attack.
“The terrorist rammed the explosive-laden vehicle directly into the foreign nationals’ car, causing extensive destruction and damaging several nearby vehicles,” investigators reported. In the aftermath, rescue teams swiftly arrived at the scene, successfully retrieving one of the vehicles belonging to the foreign nationals. Authorities are currently working to identify the vehicle using its number plate and chassis number as part of the ongoing investigation.
The explosion, powerful enough to be heard from miles away, took place outside the airport. However, authorities reassured the public that all airport facilities remained secure and that flight operations were unaffected.
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The Chinese Embassy in Islamabad condemned the “terrorist attack,” confirming the deaths of two Chinese citizens and noting that one individual sustained injuries. During the event “China at 75: A Journey of Progress, Transformation and Global Leadership” on Tuesday, Jiang Zaidong, a Chinese official, expressed frustration over the attacks, labeling them as “unacceptable.” He urged Islamabad to enhance security measures for Chinese nationals and take decisive action against anti-China elements.
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“The security of Chinese citizens is paramount for President Xi,” he emphasized, pointing out that this priority has been reiterated in discussions between Xi and Pakistani leaders. Notably, Jiang described the recent visit by Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang as taking place under “unique circumstances,” referencing the two recent attacks targeting Chinese workers.
