Chinese officials expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in Balochistan
Chinese officials are constantly expressing concern about the deteriorating security situation in Balochistan. Pakistan has deployed Special Security Division (SSD) with 15,000 personnel to protect Chinese personnel involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Despite this, China is deepening suspicion of Pakistan’s ability to ensure security in this turbulent province. This mistrust will increase further with the Jafar Express Hijack.
BLA is protesting against Chinese investment
In 2017, China proposed to set up joint security undertakings with private security firms to protect Chinese citizens in Pakistan. But Pakistan rejected the proposal citing the effects on sovereignty and bilateral relations. The BLA and other rebel groups see Chinese investment as partnership in the harassment of the Pakistani Army on Baloch people. The BLA constant attacks on Chinese citizens working on the CPEC project, including a major attack in August 2023, explains this protest.
Relations between China and Pakistan will affect
The BLA action is part of a broad movement of Baloch rebels. These rebels have long been fighting against the exploitation of their resources by the Pakistani Army and the Punjabi aristocracy. As the Chinese participation in CPEC increases, BLA has started targeting China. They consider China as partners in the exploitation of Balochistan’s resources. Hence Bla is attacking Chinese citizens and projects. These attacks are a major threat to China’s investment in Balochistan. This can also affect the relations between China and Pakistan. Will have to see what happens next.
