Commitment to CPEC and bilateral cooperation with Pakistan remains strong despite adversity

In a display of resilience and commitment to international cooperation, China has announced the continuation of work on the Tarbela Dam extension project in Pakistan, following a brief suspension due to a devastating suicide attack that resulted in the loss of five Chinese engineers. The Power Construction Corporation of China Ltd, overseeing the project, issued an office circular instructing employees to resume their duties, signalling a steadfast dedication to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiatives.

This decision comes in the wake of a tragic incident in Besham, where a convoy of Chinese engineers was targeted by a vehicle-borne suicide bomber, underscoring the security challenges faced by foreign nationals working on development projects in the region. Despite the tragedy, both the Chinese and Pakistani governments have reaffirmed their determination to continue their collaborative efforts in infrastructure development and economic cooperation.

The Chinese foreign ministry released a statement rejecting speculative reports about the cessation of work and layoffs at the site, highlighting the ongoing commitment to high-quality development in partnership with Pakistan. Spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that both nations possess the resolve and capabilities to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of their cooperative projects, denouncing any attempts to undermine the bilateral relationship.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office also condemned the attack, attributing it to forces opposed to the Pakistan-China friendship. The government has vowed to take decisive action against such acts and to work closely with China to guarantee the security of Chinese nationals and projects within its borders.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for a comprehensive joint investigation into the attack, leveraging all available state resources to bring those responsible to justice. An emergency meeting convened by the Prime Minister underscored the importance of a coordinated response to such threats, praising the quick actions of law enforcement and local communities in the aftermath of the incident.

The resumption of work on the Tarbela Dam project not only reflects the robust partnership between Pakistan and China but also their mutual commitment to advancing economic development and improving the livelihoods of their people. Amidst challenges, the continuation of such critical infrastructure projects serves as a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a cornerstone of regional development and cooperation.