Following repeated attacks on Chinese nationals working on various development projects in Pakistan, the country’s top leadership has assured Chinese authorities of high-level security measures for the protection of their citizens.
According to media reports, 22 acres of “disputed” land out of 97 acres in Gwadar have been allocated specifically for the security of Gwadar Port and the Free Zone, aimed at protecting Chinese nationals working in the defence and construction sectors.
In this regard, Pakistan’s Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal held a detailed meeting with China’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong. The meeting included Prime Minister’s Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi, and senior officials from the ministries of communications, railways, interior, and others.
During the meeting, the Chinese ambassador was informed about the allocation of 22 acres for the security of Gwadar Port and Free Zone from the 97 acres in Gwadar.
It was also clarified that out of the 2281 acres previously allocated to the Chinese Overseas Port Holding Company in Gwadar, the decision regarding the allocation of 97 acres had not been finalized. Now, this decision has been made. Furthermore, it was communicated that 72 acres of land would remain under the control of the Pakistan Navy.
It is noteworthy that Chinese nationals residing in Pakistan have been facing attacks. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for a recent suicide attack carried out by its Majeed Brigade on October 6, near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, targeting a convoy of Chinese engineers and investors. This attack resulted in the death and injury of multiple people, including Chinese citizens.
Previously, the BLA’s Majeed Brigade has targeted Chinese nationals at various locations, including Karachi, Gwadar, and Dalbandin, leading to significant casualties.