Counterterrorism
A top Chinese diplomat has emphasized that international cooperation can play a crucial role in helping Pakistan curb rising terrorism, reaffirming Beijing’s unwavering support in the fight against militancy.
Chinese Consul General in Karachi, Yang Yundong, stated that China is closely monitoring the security situation in Pakistan following the recent terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express.
Condemning the attack, he extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and reiterated China’s strong opposition to all forms of terrorism. He also assured Pakistan of China’s continued support in bringing the perpetrators to justice and restoring law and order.
Yundong made these remarks at a press briefing held at the Consulate General of China on Friday, where he discussed the outcomes of China’s Two Sessions 2025. He highlighted that the recently concluded meetings in Beijing had set the course for China’s economic and social development while reaffirming its commitment to modernization and global cooperation.
He also noted that 2024 marked the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to Pakistan, while 2025 will commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Yundong emphasized the importance of using this milestone to enhance collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and socioeconomic development. “Together, we will accelerate the construction of a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future and create a more prosperous and stable future for both nations,” he said.
Reaffirming China’s commitment to fostering high-standard international partnerships, Yundong stressed that Beijing will continue advocating for global peace and providing development opportunities for emerging economies.
He cited the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a key example of mutually beneficial cooperation, underscoring its role in strengthening bilateral ties.
The consul general’s remarks came in the aftermath of a devastating terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express, which resulted in the deaths of 26 passengers, including 18 security personnel from the army and Frontier Corps (FC).
On March 11, the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) carried out a deadly attack, blowing up railway tracks while the Jaffar Express was en route from Quetta to Peshawar. More than 440 passengers were taken hostage in a prolonged standoff with security forces in a remote mountain pass in Bolan district, Balochistan.
A major counterterrorism operation ensued, resulting in the elimination of 33 militants. According to an army official, 346 hostages were rescued during the operation.
The BLA claimed responsibility for the attack, releasing a video showing the explosion and armed militants emerging from mountainous hideouts. Survivors of the attack described scenes of chaos as gunmen stormed the train, checking identity cards, targeting security personnel, and freeing some families.
Amid escalating incidents of terrorism, Pakistan’s military has accused India of being the primary sponsor of militancy in Balochistan. Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, linked the attack on the Jaffar Express to what he described as India’s ongoing policy of destabilization.
“The latest attack in Balochistan and other terrorist incidents that took place in the past… we understand that the main sponsor of these [attacks] is your eastern neighbor,” he said on Friday.
As terrorism continues to threaten stability in the region, China has reiterated its full support for Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, calling for a united international front to combat militant threats and maintain regional security.
