Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Minister of Punjab, Pakistan, raised significant concerns on Friday regarding the adherence of Chinese nationals living in Pakistan to security protocols. Her remarks come in the wake of a suicide bombing incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where five Chinese engineers were among the casualties.
Addressing her maiden Apex Committee meeting, Nawaz highlighted the reluctance of Chinese residents to comply with security measures, stating, “the Chinese living here do not want to follow security discipline.” She emphasized that they often express resentment when requested to adhere to security protocols, citing their aversion to discipline as a point of contention.
The meeting, attended by Corps Commander Lahore Lt Gen Syed Aamer Raza and other senior military officers, aimed to address security concerns following the recent attack on Chinese engineers in Bisham. Despite the tragic incident, Nawaz affirmed her government’s commitment to ensuring foolproof security for Chinese nationals involved in development projects across Punjab.
The suicide bombing, which claimed the lives of five Chinese engineers and their Pakistani driver, underscores the evolving threat landscape faced by Pakistan. Nawaz acknowledged the changing nature of terrorism, noting its digitalization and the acquisition of advanced weaponry by terrorist groups operating in the region.
In addition to the external challenges posed by terrorism, Nawaz highlighted the internal threat of radicalization, particularly among the youth, facilitated by social media platforms. She stressed the need for proactive measures to counter terrorist propaganda and recruitment efforts, emphasizing the importance of staying ahead of terrorist tactics.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed Nawaz’s sentiments, directing security agencies to prioritize the safety of Chinese nationals involved in various projects across Pakistan. Sharif reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the comprehensive security of the nation.
As Pakistan continues to grapple with the persistent threat of terrorism, Nawaz and Sharif’s statements underscore the urgency of addressing security challenges and bolstering measures to protect both domestic and foreign interests within the country.
