China strongly condemned a devastating explosion near Karachi airport in southern Pakistan on Sunday night, which resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals and left another injured. The blast targeted a convoy carrying Chinese staff working for the Port Qasim Electric Power Company, and also caused injuries to several Pakistani citizens.
In a statement, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Pakistan urged the Pakistani government to thoroughly investigate the incident and “severely punish” those responsible for the attack. The Embassy described the explosion as a “terrorist attack” and expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families, stressing the need for immediate action.
China Calls for Immediate Action and Security Enhancements
Following the blast, the Chinese diplomatic mission in Pakistan activated an emergency response plan, requesting Pakistani authorities to step up security for Chinese citizens, businesses, and infrastructure. The statement advised Chinese nationals in Pakistan to remain vigilant, heighten security measures, and closely monitor local developments.
“The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Pakistan strongly condemn this terrorist attack, express deep condolences to the innocent victims, and extend sincere sympathies to the injured and their families,” read the statement. “We are coordinating closely with the Pakistani side to manage the aftermath and ensure that justice is served.”
Massive Blast Shakes Karachi, BLA Claims Responsibility
Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion was powerful enough to shake nearby buildings at Jinnah International Airport. Videos circulating on social media depicted flames engulfing several vehicles and a column of thick smoke rising from the scene. Local authorities, including provincial home minister Zia Ul Hassan, confirmed that the attack targeted foreign nationals, specifically Chinese engineers.
Shortly after the incident, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the blast, stating that the attack was carried out using a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device. The BLA has a history of targeting foreign nationals in Pakistan, particularly Chinese citizens, due to its opposition to Chinese investments in the region, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The group is fighting for the independence of the Balochistan province, which borders Afghanistan and Iran.
Recent Surge in Militant Attacks in Pakistan
This incident marks the latest in a series of violent attacks attributed to the BLA. In August 2023, the group launched coordinated assaults in Balochistan, resulting in the deaths of more than 70 people. The militant organization has long opposed Chinese development projects in the region, accusing Beijing of exploiting local resources at the expense of the province’s people.
Chinese nationals and projects have become frequent targets in recent years as Pakistan continues to face growing threats from militant groups. Despite security measures, this latest attack underscores the ongoing risks faced by foreign nationals working in the country.
As both nations navigate the aftermath of the Karachi blast, calls for enhanced security and diplomatic cooperation grow stronger, with China urging Pakistan to take swift action against those responsible for the tragedy.
