THE targeting and killing of Chinese nationals working in Pakistan have raised serious concerns about both the safety of foreign workers and the impact on long-term development projects, particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These attacks are part of a broader strategy aimed at destabilizing Pakistan’s growth and weakening Pakistan-China relations. Understanding the motives behind these killings, identifying the beneficiaries, and addressing the internal and external forces orchestrating these incidents is essential for securing joint ventures like CPEC and protecting Pakistan’s economic and geopolitical interests.
One of the key motives behind these attacks is to undermine Pakistan’s economic progress. CPEC, a multi-billion-dollar initiative and a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), represents a long-term partnership between China and Pakistan. It promises significant benefits for Pakistan, including infrastructure development, energy projects, and the creation of industrial zones. CPEC has the potential to transform Pakistan into a regional economic hub, a development that some powers find threatening. By targeting Chinese nationals, adversaries aim to disrupt foreign investment, delay CPEC projects, and hinder Pakistan’s economic development.
External forces are believed to play a major role in these attacks. Certain regional and global powers are uncomfortable with China’s expanding influence in South Asia, particularly through its strategic partnership with Pakistan. CPEC, given its strategic importance as a trade route and energy corridor, is seen as a threat to the economic and geopolitical interests of rival nations. These forces may sponsor militant groups to carry out attacks on Chinese personnel, with the goal of driving a wedge between Pakistan and China. If successful, such efforts would benefit these external powers by reducing China’s influence in the region and slowing Pakistan’s economic progress.
Internally, various groups also contribute to these attacks. Some are ideologically opposed to Pakistan’s close cooperation with China, while others seek to maintain instability in certain regions. Baloch separatist groups, for example, have frequently claimed responsibility for targeting Chinese workers, viewing CPEC as a threat to their cause. They argue that CPEC marginalizes local populations while exploiting the resources of Balochistan. Though their grievances may be local, these groups are often accused of receiving support from external actors with broader geopolitical goals. Additionally, other extremist factions in Pakistan may target Chinese nationals to challenge the state and draw international attention to their causes.
The beneficiaries of these attacks are clear. CPEC strengthens Pakistan’s economic and strategic capabilities, which directly challenges India’s influence in the region. Any disruption or delay in CPEC projects would serve India’s strategic interests by slowing down Pakistan’s economic growth. Similarly, some Western powers, concerned about China’s growing global influence, may view the disruption of CPEC as a way to contain China’s rise in Asia and beyond. By undermining this critical initiative, these powers can slow down China’s economic expansion and its strengthening ties with Pakistan. The repeated targeting of Chinese nationals has a serious impact on CPEC and other joint ventures, signaling insecurity not only to China but to potential investors as well. Although China has continued its investments in Pakistan despite these threats, ongoing attacks could lead Chinese companies to reconsider the risks of their involvement. These firms may demand enhanced security measures, which would drive up project costs. In a worst-case scenario, prolonged violence could reduce China’s participation in CPEC, severely affecting Pakistan’s economic prospects. Furthermore, other countries might also hesitate to invest if they perceive Pakistan cannot ensure the safety of foreign workers.
Pakistan must take immediate steps to address this growing issue. First, the government needs to enhance security measures for foreign workers, especially those involved in CPEC-related projects. This includes better coordination between security forces and improved intelligence sharing with China to prevent future attacks. Second, Pakistan must address internal grievances fueling some of these attacks. In regions like Balochistan, where CPEC is often viewed with suspicion, the government must engage with local communities. It is crucial that the local population benefits from these large-scale projects through employment opportunities and social development initiatives. Addressing local concerns can reduce the appeal of militancy and foster a more inclusive and stable environment.
On the diplomatic front, Pakistan needs to take a stronger stance against external actors suspected of sponsoring or facilitating these attacks. By presenting evidence to international forums and engaging its allies, Pakistan can counter efforts aimed at undermining its relationship with China. While maintaining strong ties with China, Pakistan should also work toward resolving regional tensions through dialogue and diplomacy, which would help reduce the threat of external interference. In conclusion, the attacks on Chinese nationals working in Pakistan are not isolated incidents but part of a larger strategy to disrupt Pakistan’s economic progress and weaken its partnership with China. Both internal and external forces are involved in these destabilization efforts, with the goal of undermining CPEC and other vital development projects. To counter these challenges, Pakistan must act decisively by strengthening security, addressing internal grievances, and confronting external threats. By taking these actions, Pakistan can protect its economic future and maintain its crucial relationship with China.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Islamabad.
