©Freepik
China May Deploy Troops to Pakistan Amid Rising Attacks on CPEC Workers
China is reportedly considering sending troops to Pakistan to protect its citizens working on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, following a surge in terror attacks targeting Chinese nationals. The latest incident, on October 6, saw two Chinese workers killed in a suicide bombing by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) in Gwadar, Balochistan, escalating security concerns for Beijing.
Increased Security Measures for CPEC Projects
In response to these rising threats, China has requested an additional 90 billion rupees to enhance security for its workers and CPEC phase two projects. The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has also approved 45 billion rupees for military and naval security improvements. Discussions between China and Pakistan include the potential signing of an anti-terrorism cooperation agreement, which could lead to a formal Chinese military presence in Pakistan.
China has also proposed creating a joint security company with Pakistan to protect its citizens, particularly in volatile regions like Balochistan, where separatist militants often target Chinese interests. This move could increase China’s involvement in Pakistan’s security operations and possibly lead to the deployment of Chinese troops.
Growing Threats to Chinese Nationals in Pakistan
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, launched in 2015 as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is a crucial investment worth approximately USD 62 billion. With around 30,000 Chinese nationals working on infrastructure, energy, and development projects across Pakistan, their safety has become a priority. Recent attacks, including a suicide bombing in Karachi University in 2022 and multiple assaults in Gwadar, have strained Pakistan-China relations and underscored the need for heightened security.
As both nations seek to protect the CPEC projects, a formal partnership under an anti-terrorism agreement may soon solidify China’s military role in Pakistan. These developments reflect the growing urgency for enhanced security to ensure the success of this vital economic initiative.
