In Karachi, Pakistan, two Chinese nationals were killed in a vehicle-borne explosive attack near Jinnah International Airport on Sunday night, confirmed the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan. The explosion, described as a "terrorist attack" and termed a Pakistan suicide attack, was claimed by the separatist militant group Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

The BLA stated that the blast targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers and investors returning from the airport, marking a significant escalation in its ongoing campaign against Chinese interests in Balochistan. The embassy expressed deep condolences for the victims and activated an emergency response plan, urging Pakistani authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and enhance security for Chinese citizens and projects in the country.

The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Pakistan strongly condemn this terrorist attack, express deep condolences to the innocent victims of both countries and sincere sympathies to the injured and (their) families," the statement said, adding the Chinese side has been working with Pakistani authorities in the aftermath.

Pakistan suicide attack
Image Source: Centre for Strategic and Contemporary Research

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said a Chinese national was also injured and that an investigation was underway. "Pakistan stands committed to safeguarding our Chinese friends," he said in a statement on social media platform X. "We will leave no stone unturned to ensure their security and well-being."

The Chinese nationals were part of a team from the Port Qasim Electric Power Company. In addition to the fatalities, reports indicate that at least ten others were injured in the attack, including one Chinese national. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured that Pakistan is committed to ensuring the safety of its Chinese partners and that a comprehensive investigation is underway.

The BLA has a history of targeting Chinese nationals in response to perceived exploitation of Balochistan’s resources. The group seeks independence for the province, accusing Beijing of complicity with the Pakistani government in marginalizing local communities.

This incident comes as Pakistan prepares to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Islamabad, which will see high-level attendance from Chinese officials and the first visit by an Indian foreign minister in a decade. Security for the summit has become a top priority amid rising tensions.

This attack reflects ongoing security challenges in Pakistan, particularly affecting Chinese investments under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Previous assaults on Chinese citizens, including a suicide bombing that killed five engineers earlier this year, have raised concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in the region.

As Pakistan grapples with these challenges, the need for effective security measures and engagement with local communities remains critical to fostering a stable environment for investment and development.

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