Chinese Consul General Yang Yundong on Tuesday called on political parties and rights groups in Balochistan to ‘set aside’ their differences and focus on the region’s construction and economic development.
The Consul General’s remarks come amid a ‘violent crackdown’ by Pakistani state forces on participants of the ‘Baloch Raaji Muchi’ (Baloch National Gathering), which has drawn significant international attention. Read more about the crackdown here.
“Some people said that ‘without the stability of Balochistan, there’s no stability of Pakistan.’ I agree with this view,” Consul General Yang Yundong told reporters in Karachi, when asked about Beijing’s view on the protests in Balochistan.
“We hope that all political parties and social organizations will set aside their differences, focus on construction and economic development, and prioritize the public’s interest,” he added.
Yang highlighted China’s commitment to developing Gwadar, noting the completion of several key projects, including the new Gwadar International Airport. “We aim to transform Gwadar into a major transshipment hub and build Balochistan into a more stable and prosperous province,” he said.
Despite these assurances, critics argue that the local Baloch population has not seen the promised benefits of these development projects. The recent gathering in Gwadar aimed to peacefully voice their concerns, but protesters were met with repression and violence, underscoring the ongoing tensions and grievances in the region.