Chinese “inter-agency working group” arrives in Pakistan following terrorist attack

ISLAMABAD: In response to the recent terrorist attack targeting Chinese workers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, China deployed an inter-agency working group to Pakistan, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Friday.

A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the group is in close communication with the Chinese embassy and relevant parties.

As per sources, the Chinese delegation upon arrival engaged in high level meetings with high-ranking Pakistani officials, including the Minister of Interior and Minister of Foreign Affairs.

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During the discussions, the Chinese delegation stated that a thorough and quick investigation into the attack was need. The delegation also pointed out that comprehensive actions were needed to address security risks within Pakistan.

The Chinese Foreign Office Spokesperson Lin Jian also confirmed the delegation’s presence in Pakistan during a press conference on Friday.

The spokesperson said that China’s primary objective was to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, institutions, and projects in Pakistan. He said that the Pakistani government assured its commitment to conducting thorough investigations and enhancing security measures to protect Chinese interests within its borders.

Speaking during the press briefing, the spokesperson said that “Right after the terrorist attack, China sent an inter-agency working group to Pakistan. After arriving in Pakistan, the working group immediately started engaging fully in the emergency response work with the embassy in Pakistan and the company concerned”, he said.

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Lin Jian went on to detail the actions and aims of the task force. “The head of the working group, Director-General of the Department of External Security Affairs of the Foreign Ministry Bai Tian met with Pakistani officials, including the Foreign Secretary, the Foreign Minister and the Minister for Interior. He asked the Pakistani side to conduct speedy and thorough investigations into the attack, properly handle ensuing matters, step up security with concrete measures, completely eliminate security risks and do everything possible to ensure the utmost safety of Chinese personnel, institutions and projects in Pakistan”.

Meanwhile, Pakistani authorities promised the Chinese delegation a proper inquiry into the attack, while also pledging to ramp up security for Chinese nationals working in the country. “The Pakistani side said that investigations and efforts to handle the ensuing matters are fully underway and they are taking all possible steps to step up security for Chinese personnel, projects and institutions. The working group will undertake further related work in Pakistan”, the spokesperson added.