ISLAMABAD: Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang’s upcoming visit to Pakistan remains on schedule, despite a recent terrorist attack in Karachi that killed two Chinese nationals. Sources told The Express Tribune on Wednesday that the planned visit, linked to the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), will proceed as expected next week.
The tragic incident in Karachi, where two Chinese engineers lost their lives outside Jinnah International Airport, raised concerns over the visit. This marked the second attack targeting Chinese nationals in Pakistan. In March, five Chinese engineers were killed when a vehicle packed with explosives hit their bus in Besham. The engineers were working on the Dasu Hydroelectric Power Project.
The latest attack in Karachi has unsettled both Chinese and Pakistani authorities. Sources admitted that the situation is particularly embarrassing for Pakistan, as promises of foolproof security for Chinese nationals were made. Nevertheless, the Chinese Prime Minister’s visit is still confirmed, much to the relief of both nations.
Significance of the Visit
This will be the first visit by a Chinese Prime Minister to Pakistan in 11 years. It comes at a time when Pakistan urgently seeks Beijing’s assistance to stabilize its struggling economy. The visit holds significant importance as both countries are preparing to sign several agreements to enhance bilateral cooperation.
However, the Karachi attack is expected to cast a shadow over the discussions. In the past, China has expressed concerns about the repeated attacks on its nationals. After the Besham attack, a senior Chinese minister visited Pakistan, making it clear that future investments would depend on the safety and security of Chinese workers.
Security Concerns and Future Cooperation
Following the Besham attack, Pakistan revisited its security measures for Chinese nationals and implemented new protocols. Despite these efforts, terrorists managed to carry out the Karachi attack, raising questions about the effectiveness of the plan.
It is believed that during his visit, the Chinese Prime Minister may propose the idea of a joint security company to safeguard the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other Chinese investments in Pakistan. China’s continued support is crucial for Pakistan, especially as the country navigates severe economic challenges.
SCO Meeting Preparations and Other Delegates
Meanwhile, other delegates are continuing with their plans to attend the SCO meeting. Sources confirmed that the Russian Prime Minister has already confirmed participation. Additionally, India has officially informed Pakistan’s Foreign Office that its Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar, will also attend.
In light of the Karachi incident, Pakistani authorities are tightening security for all SCO delegates. The federal government has announced public holidays from October 14 to 16 to ensure the smooth conduct of the SCO meeting and secure the movement of visiting officials.
Council of Heads of Governments Meeting
The two-day meeting will begin on October 15. The Council of Heads of Governments is the second highest forum of the SCO, a Eurasian alliance that includes China and Russia, which has been met with suspicion in the West.
Despite the tragic events in Karachi, the visit of the Chinese Prime Minister, along with the attendance of other key delegates, marks a crucial moment for Pakistan’s diplomatic and economic future.
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