In a strong condemnation, China has denounced the recent attack on Pakistan’s Gwadar Port by Baloch militants, emphasizing its firm stance against terrorism and reiterating support for Pakistan’s anti-terrorism efforts. The attack targeted the Gwadar Port complex, a crucial component of the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, highlighting the strategic significance of the region.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed deep sorrow for the Pakistani personnel killed in the attack, stating, “We strongly condemn the terrorist attack and mourn for the Pakistani personnel killed in the attack.” He emphasized China’s stance against all forms of terrorism and reiterated China’s firm support for Pakistan’s national development and social stability.
The attack, which was foiled by Pakistani security personnel, resulted in the deaths of two soldiers of the Pakistani Army, while eight Baloch militants were neutralized. The Gwadar Port complex houses various government and paramilitary offices and remains a focal point of the CPEC project.
Balochistan, a province bordering Iran and Afghanistan, has been plagued by a long-running insurgency. Baloch insurgent groups, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), have previously carried out attacks targeting CPEC projects, alleging exploitation of the resource-rich province by China and Pakistan.
Despite the attack, thousands of Chinese personnel continue to work in Pakistan on various projects under the CPEC. The incident comes after a period of relative calm following the February 8 general elections in Balochistan.
The Centre for Research and Security Studies’ annual security report indicates a concerning trend, with Pakistan experiencing a record six-year high in violence-related fatalities and injuries in 2023. The report recorded 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1,463 injuries from 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations in the country.
