Pakistan, China reaffirm cooperation against terrorism after Balochistan attacks

Pakistan and China on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to counter-terrorism and internal security cooperation following deadly attacks in Balochistan that killed 216 militants. The announcement came during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong at the Ministry of Interior. The discussion focused on security measures for Chinese nationals and Chinese-funded projects in Pakistan, as well as broader collaboration on intelligence sharing and cybercrime prevention. The military said its Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1, which concluded on Thursday in Balochistan, targeted networks of militants allegedly backed by foreign actors, aiming to disrupt security and development in the province. India has repeatedly denied such allegations. During the meeting, Interior Minister Naqvi briefed Ambassador Jiang on the rapid response by Pakistani security forces, emphasizing that counter-terrorism operations were carried out in a coordinated and intelligence-driven manner. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to protect Chinese nationals, including the establishment of a Special Protection Unit and the use of modern Chinese technology in counter-terrorism operations. Ambassador Jiang condemned the attacks on civilians and security forces, extended condolences to the victims’ families, and reiterated China’s support for Pakistan in combating terrorism. Both sides agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in security, intelligence sharing, and strategic partnership. “China strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms and stands firmly with Pakistan,” Jiang said, while Naqvi expressed appreciation for China’s continued support for Pakistan. The meeting was attended by Pakistan’s Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, Secretary Interior, Special Secretary Interior, and senior officials from the Chinese Embassy.