In another show of China's plummeting ties with its neighbours, protesters in Manila trampled on an effigy of Chinese top leader Xi Jinping on Tuesday (April 9) to condemn Beijing's maritime aggression against the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea which China has managed to popularise as South China Sea.&nbsp;

The protestors marched towards China's consulate in the Filipino capital Manila as they chanted "China leave". Others called out Beijing for its "aggression against the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;The Philippines becomes Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economy

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China's maritime belligerence in the region has increased in recent past. Last month, a Chinese vessel used water cannon to disrupt a Filipino supply mission to soldiers stationed on a grounded warship in the Philippines' Second Thomas Shoal which Beijing claims as its own.&nbsp;

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"Our message is addressed to the Chinese government: move out of the West Philippine Sea, dismantle its illegal structures ... recognise the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling, and stop the harassment of Filipino fisher folk and ... Philippine supply missions," said Mong Palatino, one of the protest leaders, news agency Reuters reported.

Beijing claims West Philippine Sea, which is more than 1,000 km away from the Chinese mainland, almost in its absolute entirety. A series of Chinese coastguard vessels surveil the region with Philippines' guarding its sovereign waters.&nbsp;

A 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration found Beijing's claim to almost all of West Philippine Sea as groundless. The court &nbsp;in The Hague pointed out that China's sweeping claims over waters also claimed by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam have no legal basis.

But China does not accept the ruling.&nbsp;

China has also constructed artificial islands in the region. It has further fortified them to lay maritime claims in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

In another show of China's plummeting ties with its neighbours, protesters in Manila trampled on an effigy of Chinese top leader Xi Jinping on Tuesday (April 9) to condemn Beijing's maritime aggression against the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea which China has managed to popularise as South China Sea.

In another show of China's plummeting ties with its neighbours, protesters in Manila trampled on an effigy of Chinese top leader Xi Jinping on Tuesday (April 9) to condemn Beijing's maritime aggression against the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea which China has managed to popularise as South China Sea. The protestors marched towards China's consulate in the Filipino capital Manila as they chanted "China leave". Others called out Beijing for its "aggression against the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea. Also watch | The Philippines becomes Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economy × China's maritime belligerence in the region has increased in recent past. Last month, a Chinese vessel used water cannon to disrupt a Filipino supply mission to soldiers stationed on a grounded warship in the Philippines' Second Thomas Shoal which Beijing claims as its own. Also read | Video: Chinese action causes near-collision of Philippine civilian vessel in South China Sea "Our message is addressed to the Chinese government: move out of the West Philippine Sea, dismantle its illegal structures ... recognise the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling, and stop the harassment of Filipino fisher folk and ... Philippine supply missions," said Mong Palatino, one of the protest leaders, news agency Reuters reported. Beijing claims West Philippine Sea, which is more than 1,000 km away from the Chinese mainland, almost in its absolute entirety. A series of Chinese coastguard vessels surveil the region with Philippines' guarding its sovereign waters. A 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration found Beijing's claim to almost all of West Philippine Sea as groundless. The court in The Hague pointed out that China's sweeping claims over waters also claimed by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam have no legal basis. But China does not accept the ruling. China has also constructed artificial islands in the region. It has further fortified them to lay maritime claims in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

'China leave': Xi Jinping's effigy trampled upon outside Chinese consulate in Manila

San Francisco police on Thursday released the first official details of the incident wherein a man crashed into the Chinese consulate on October 9. They said that the man had a crossbow and arrows and swung a knife at officers before being shot dead by a police sergeant.

The police, as per a CBS News report, also showed body camera footage from the responding officers.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the body cam footage show?&nbsp;</h2>

Speaking at a virtual town hall on Thursday, San Francisco Police Acting Commander Mark Im said that the man — identified as 31-year-old Zhanyuan Yang — had a crossbow and arrows in his car.&nbsp;

Body cam footage showed Yang covering his face with his left arm after getting pepper sprayed by a security guard.

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He had a knife in his right hand, which he used to make "multiple, rapid, downward swinging motions"&nbsp;at responding officer San Francisco Sergeant Troy Carrasco, who was the first to arrive on the scene, and a consulate security guard.

Footage shows Carrasco touching Yang's back and asking the security guard, "Does he have a gun?"

The man then turns towards the officer and the guard and starts swinging the knife. Following this, Carrasco opens fire and shortly after, he can be heard shouting: "You should have told me he had a knife!"

<h2>Why didn't the police de-escalate the situation?</h2>

Responding to a question about the police's apparent lack of attempts to de-escalate the situation, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said he was not going to make any judgements nor guess what the officer was thinking.

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However, he said that officers are trained to first stop a threat when confronted with an active threat.

"If we believe that we have an active attacker event, we will do everything possible to stop that threat immediately so we don't have a loss of life," said Scott.

Yang was taken to the hospital, where he died.

Police investigators are still looking into the motive behind this attack. Briefing the press, Scott said: "Why he showed up there, what he was doing, that's still under investigation and there's nothing that we have at this point that I can release."

In a statement released after the car crash, San Francisco's Chinese diplomatic post called the incident "a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene".

It said that an "unidentified person drove violently into the document hall of the consulate, posing a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene, and causing serious damage to the facilities and property of the consulate."

(With inputs from agencies)

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San Francisco police on Thursday released the first official details of the incident wherein a man crashed into the Chinese consulate on October 9. They said that the man had a crossbow and arrows and swung a knife at officers before being shot dead by a police sergeant.

San Francisco police on Thursday released the first official details of the incident wherein a man crashed into the Chinese consulate on October 9. They said that the man had a crossbow and arrows and swung a knife at officers before being shot dead by a police sergeant. The police, as per a CBS News report, also showed body camera footage from the responding officers. What did the body cam footage show? Speaking at a virtual town hall on Thursday, San Francisco Police Acting Commander Mark Im said that the man — identified as 31-year-old Zhanyuan Yang — had a crossbow and arrows in his car. Body cam footage showed Yang covering his face with his left arm after getting pepper sprayed by a security guard. Also read | Man crashes into Chinese consulate in San Francisco, shot dead by police He had a knife in his right hand, which he used to make "multiple, rapid, downward swinging motions" at responding officer San Francisco Sergeant Troy Carrasco, who was the first to arrive on the scene, and a consulate security guard. Footage shows Carrasco touching Yang's back and asking the security guard, "Does he have a gun?" The man then turns towards the officer and the guard and starts swinging the knife. Following this, Carrasco opens fire and shortly after, he can be heard shouting: "You should have told me he had a knife!" Why didn't the police de-escalate the situation? Responding to a question about the police's apparent lack of attempts to de-escalate the situation, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said he was not going to make any judgements nor guess what the officer was thinking. Also read | US Army accuses Travis King of desertion, solicitation of child pornography, among other charges However, he said that officers are trained to first stop a threat when confronted with an active threat. "If we believe that we have an active attacker event, we will do everything possible to stop that threat immediately so we don't have a loss of life," said Scott. Yang was taken to the hospital, where he died. Police investigators are still looking into the motive behind this attack. Briefing the press, Scott said: "Why he showed up there, what he was doing, that's still under investigation and there's nothing that we have at this point that I can release." In a statement released after the car crash, San Francisco's Chinese diplomatic post called the incident "a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene". It said that an "unidentified person drove violently into the document hall of the consulate, posing a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene, and causing serious damage to the facilities and property of the consulate." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Man who crashed into Chinese consulate had crossbow, arrows and swung knife at officers: San Francisco police

Police in San Francisco, United States, shot dead a man who had slammed his car into the local Chinese consulate.

The man, as per reports, had ploughed his car into the consulate, driving his car into the lobby of the building's visa office on Monday.

<h2>Why did he crash into the consulate?</h2>

As per the police, details of the incident remain sketchy. The identity of the motorist and his motive behind crashing into the consular office remain unknown.

"I don't know how many people were inside the visa office at the time of the collision," said San Francisco Police Department spokesperson Sergeant Kathryn Winters during a news briefing hours after the incident.

There are no reports of anyone else getting injured in the crash.

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Winters told the press that upon arrival of the police at the scene, "they found the vehicle had come to rest inside the lobby of the Chinese Consulate."

The officers entered the premises and "made contact with the suspect, and an officer-involved shooting occurred."

"The suspect was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. This is an open and active investigation," said the spokesperson.

Winters also disclosed that the police were coordinating with investigators from the US State Department.

"There's very little information that we can give at this time."

<h2>A serious threat to staff</h2>

In a statement, San Francisco's Chinese diplomatic post called it "a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene".

It said that an "unidentified person drove violently into the document hall of the consulate, posing a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene, and causing serious damage to the facilities and property of the consulate."

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Strongly condemning the incident, the consulate said it "reserves the right to pursue responsibility for the incident."

On its WeChat account, the consulate said it would temporarily close its consular certificate hall from October 10 and said that it would inform the public when services resume.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Police in San Francisco, United States, shot dead a man who had slammed his car into the local Chinese consulate. The man, as per reports, had ploughed his car into the consulate, driving his car into the lobby of the building's visa office on Monday.

Police in San Francisco, United States, shot dead a man who had slammed his car into the local Chinese consulate. The man, as per reports, had ploughed his car into the consulate, driving his car into the lobby of the building's visa office on Monday. Why did he crash into the consulate? As per the police, details of the incident remain sketchy. The identity of the motorist and his motive behind crashing into the consular office remain unknown. "I don't know how many people were inside the visa office at the time of the collision," said San Francisco Police Department spokesperson Sergeant Kathryn Winters during a news briefing hours after the incident. There are no reports of anyone else getting injured in the crash. Also read | Trudeau provokes India again, mentions 'importance of upholding law' during talks with Jordan King Winters told the press that upon arrival of the police at the scene, "they found the vehicle had come to rest inside the lobby of the Chinese Consulate." The officers entered the premises and "made contact with the suspect, and an officer-involved shooting occurred." "The suspect was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. This is an open and active investigation," said the spokesperson. Winters also disclosed that the police were coordinating with investigators from the US State Department. "There's very little information that we can give at this time." A serious threat to staff In a statement, San Francisco's Chinese diplomatic post called it "a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene". It said that an "unidentified person drove violently into the document hall of the consulate, posing a serious threat to the safety of the staff and people at the scene, and causing serious damage to the facilities and property of the consulate." Also read | Myanmar: Dozens including children killed in deadly military strike on refugee camp Strongly condemning the incident, the consulate said it "reserves the right to pursue responsibility for the incident." On its WeChat account, the consulate said it would temporarily close its consular certificate hall from October 10 and said that it would inform the public when services resume. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Man crashes into Chinese consulate in San Francisco, shot dead by police

Bob Chan, the protester who was assaulted at the Chinese consulate in Manchester, said that he was not looking to enter the premises when the incident happened. Videos surfaced of the incident which took place on Sunday, and it has resulted in tensions between China and the United Kingdom.

Since the video surfaced online, the British foreign office and the office of Prime Minister Liz Truss had criticised the Chinese diplomats for the incident. Later, the foreign office also summoned a top Chinese diplomat in order to discuss the circumstances of the incident in Manchester.

Chan, who was a part of the pro-Hong Kong democracy protests, also told reporters at the press conference that he was beaten by masked men who came out of the consulate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-home-secretary-suella-braverman-steps-down-over-accidental-national-security-breach-526884" hreflang="en">UK’s home secretary steps down over ‘accidental’ national security breach</a>

"I then found myself being dragged into the grounds of the consulate. I held on to the gates where I was kicked and punched, I could not hold on for long," he said according to BBC.

"I was eventually pulled onto the ground of the consulate. I felt punches and kicks from several men. Other protestors were trying to get me out of this situation, but to no avail.”

"The attack only stopped when a man who turned out to be a uniformed officer from the Greater Manchester Police pulled me outside the gates. Let me say it again so I am clear: I was dragged into the consulate I did not attempt to enter the consulate," he added in the press conference.

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Chan also expressed his shock that the incident took place on British soil.

"I am shocked because I never thought something like this could happen in the UK. I still believe the UK is a place where free speech and protest are basic human rights. No amount of violence or diplomatic pressure will change that. I am hurt physically and mentally," he said.

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Bob Chan, the protester who was assaulted at the Chinese consulate in Manchester, said that he was not looking to enter the premises when the incident happened. Videos surfaced of the incident which took place on Sunday, and it has resulted in tensions between China and the United Kingdom.

Bob Chan, the protester who was assaulted at the Chinese consulate in Manchester, said that he was not looking to enter the premises when the incident happened. Videos surfaced of the incident which took place on Sunday, and it has resulted in tensions between China and the United Kingdom. Since the video surfaced online, the British foreign office and the office of Prime Minister Liz Truss had criticised the Chinese diplomats for the incident. Later, the foreign office also summoned a top Chinese diplomat in order to discuss the circumstances of the incident in Manchester. Chan, who was a part of the pro-Hong Kong democracy protests, also told reporters at the press conference that he was beaten by masked men who came out of the consulate. Also read | UK’s home secretary steps down over ‘accidental’ national security breach "I then found myself being dragged into the grounds of the consulate. I held on to the gates where I was kicked and punched, I could not hold on for long," he said according to BBC. "I was eventually pulled onto the ground of the consulate. I felt punches and kicks from several men. Other protestors were trying to get me out of this situation, but to no avail.” "The attack only stopped when a man who turned out to be a uniformed officer from the Greater Manchester Police pulled me outside the gates. Let me say it again so I am clear: I was dragged into the consulate I did not attempt to enter the consulate," he added in the press conference. Also read | World’s second richest man sells private jet to stop Twitter from tracking him Chan also expressed his shock that the incident took place on British soil. "I am shocked because I never thought something like this could happen in the UK. I still believe the UK is a place where free speech and protest are basic human rights. No amount of violence or diplomatic pressure will change that. I am hurt physically and mentally," he said.

I was dragged into Chinese consulate, says protester who was assaulted in Manchester

US federal agents&nbsp;entered the Chinese consulate compound in Houston on Friday following the order to close the diplomatic facility.

The US officials had alleged the Houston consulate was a hub of a spying network run by the Chinese, and was part of a larger&nbsp;espionage effort using diplomatic facilities around the country.

To this end, a group of men accompanied by a US State Department official were seen forcing open a door at the Chinese consulate in Houston on Friday, shortly after a US government closure order for the mission took effect.

The group included a man who appeared to be a State Department top official. After the men pried open a rear door and went inside, two uniformed members of the US State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Security arrived to guard the door.

According to CNN, a series of black SUVs, trucks, two white vans and a locksmith's van entered the property on Friday afternoon.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;staff at the US consulate in the Chinese city of Chengdu were busy packing belongings and removing the American insignia from the building on Saturday, a day after Beijing ordered its closure in a tit-for-tat diplomatic battle with Washington.

At least ten sacks were removed from the building in the early hours of the morning.

A worker on a small crane removed a circular US insignia from the front of the consulate, leaving just an American flag flying on the now unmarked site.

Other staff were seen moving trolleys around inside, one carrying a large empty metal bin, while some wheeled suitcases.

US officials said the consulate had been implicated in a fraud investigation at a Texas research institution and that Chinese consulate officials "were directly involved in communications with researchers and guided them on what information to collect."

The US had given China roughly 72 hours to "cease all operations and events" at the Houston facility on Tuesday, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, which called the move an "unprecedented escalation" amid ongoing tension between the two countries.

RTensions have soared between the two powers on a range of fronts, including&nbsp;an ongoing trade war, the coronavirus pandemic, and US criticism of China's human rights abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang.

Washington's demand for the Houston consulate to close also triggered a Chinese demand earlier Friday that the US close its consulate in Chengdu.&nbsp;Beijing says closing the Chengdu consulate was a "legitimate and necessary response to the unreasonable measures by the United States", and has alleged that staff at the diplomatic mission endangered China's security and interests.

(with inputs from agencies)

US federal agents entered the Chinese consulate compound in Houston on Friday following the order to close the diplomatic facility. The US officials had alleged the Houston consulate was a hub of a spying network run by the Chinese, and was part of a larger espionage effort using diplomatic facilities around the country.

US federal agents entered the Chinese consulate compound in Houston on Friday following the order to close the diplomatic facility. The US officials had alleged the Houston consulate was a hub of a spying network run by the Chinese, and was part of a larger espionage effort using diplomatic facilities around the country. To this end, a group of men accompanied by a US State Department official were seen forcing open a door at the Chinese consulate in Houston on Friday, shortly after a US government closure order for the mission took effect. The group included a man who appeared to be a State Department top official. After the men pried open a rear door and went inside, two uniformed members of the US State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Security arrived to guard the door. According to CNN, a series of black SUVs, trucks, two white vans and a locksmith's van entered the property on Friday afternoon. Meanwhile, staff at the US consulate in the Chinese city of Chengdu were busy packing belongings and removing the American insignia from the building on Saturday, a day after Beijing ordered its closure in a tit-for-tat diplomatic battle with Washington. At least ten sacks were removed from the building in the early hours of the morning. A worker on a small crane removed a circular US insignia from the front of the consulate, leaving just an American flag flying on the now unmarked site. Other staff were seen moving trolleys around inside, one carrying a large empty metal bin, while some wheeled suitcases. US officials said the consulate had been implicated in a fraud investigation at a Texas research institution and that Chinese consulate officials "were directly involved in communications with researchers and guided them on what information to collect." The US had given China roughly 72 hours to "cease all operations and events" at the Houston facility on Tuesday, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, which called the move an "unprecedented escalation" amid ongoing tension between the two countries. RTensions have soared between the two powers on a range of fronts, including an ongoing trade war, the coronavirus pandemic, and US criticism of China's human rights abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Washington's demand for the Houston consulate to close also triggered a Chinese demand earlier Friday that the US close its consulate in Chengdu. Beijing says closing the Chengdu consulate was a "legitimate and necessary response to the unreasonable measures by the United States", and has alleged that staff at the diplomatic mission endangered China's security and interests. (with inputs from agencies)

Consulates in Houston, Chengdu being readied for closure as US, China clash

Tensions between the United States and China have continued to rise following the forced closure by Washington of Beijing's consulate in Houston. It is being reported that federal prosecutors are seeking a Chinese scientist accused of visa fraud who they say is hiding out in China's consulate in San Francisco.

According to CNN, prosecutors allege Tang Juan lied about her connection to the Chinese military in order to obtain entry into the US and has since avoided arrest by taking refuge in the West Coast diplomatic mission.

According to court filings, Tang was charged on June 26 with one count of visa fraud.

Prosecutors said she concealed her connection to the country's military in her visa application, but investigators discovered she had been employed as a researcher at the Fourth Military Medical University (FMMU).

During an interview with FBI agents on June 20, Tang denied serving in the Chinese military and said that wearing a military uniform was required for attendance at FMMU because it was a military school, CNN reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/closure-of-more-chinese-embassies-possible-says-trump-as-us-shuts-down-consulate-in-houston-315329">Also read |&nbsp;Closure of more Chinese embassies 'possible', says Trump as US shuts down consulate in Houston</a>

However, during a search of her residence and electronic media, FBI agents allegedly "found further evidence of Tang's PLA affiliation."

It's speculated that after the interrogation, Tang allegedly fled to the San Francisco consulate, "where the FBI assesses she has remained.

Several attempts have been made to arrest her.

On Wednesday, Beijing promised to retaliate to the Houston closure, with state media pointing to the potential shuttering of one of the US' numerous diplomatic missions within China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-state-media-blasts-houston-consulate-shutdown-as-trump-election-gambit-315289">Also read |&nbsp;Chinese state media blasts Houston consulate shutdown as Trump election gambit</a>

China's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday called the order an "unprecedented escalation" and suggested it would retaliate in kind. Officials in Houston were even seen appearing to burn documents in a courtyard outside the consulate.

Relations between China and the United States have plummeted in the past year, amid an ongoing trade war, the coronavirus pandemic, and US criticism of China's human rights abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. 
&nbsp;

Tensions between the United States and China have continued to rise following the forced closure by Washington of Beijing's consulate in Houston. It is being reported that federal prosecutors are seeking a Chinese scientist accused of visa fraud who they say is hiding out in China's consulate in San Francisco.

Tensions between the United States and China have continued to rise following the forced closure by Washington of Beijing's consulate in Houston. It is being reported that federal prosecutors are seeking a Chinese scientist accused of visa fraud who they say is hiding out in China's consulate in San Francisco. According to CNN, prosecutors allege Tang Juan lied about her connection to the Chinese military in order to obtain entry into the US and has since avoided arrest by taking refuge in the West Coast diplomatic mission. According to court filings, Tang was charged on June 26 with one count of visa fraud. Prosecutors said she concealed her connection to the country's military in her visa application, but investigators discovered she had been employed as a researcher at the Fourth Military Medical University (FMMU). During an interview with FBI agents on June 20, Tang denied serving in the Chinese military and said that wearing a military uniform was required for attendance at FMMU because it was a military school, CNN reported. Also read | Closure of more Chinese embassies 'possible', says Trump as US shuts down consulate in Houston However, during a search of her residence and electronic media, FBI agents allegedly "found further evidence of Tang's PLA affiliation." It's speculated that after the interrogation, Tang allegedly fled to the San Francisco consulate, "where the FBI assesses she has remained. Several attempts have been made to arrest her. On Wednesday, Beijing promised to retaliate to the Houston closure, with state media pointing to the potential shuttering of one of the US' numerous diplomatic missions within China. Also read | Chinese state media blasts Houston consulate shutdown as Trump election gambit China's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday called the order an "unprecedented escalation" and suggested it would retaliate in kind. Officials in Houston were even seen appearing to burn documents in a courtyard outside the consulate. Relations between China and the United States have plummeted in the past year, amid an ongoing trade war, the coronavirus pandemic, and US criticism of China's human rights abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang.

China harbouring military-linked fugitive scientist at San Francisco consulate, says FBI

The US does not rule out the possibility of closing more Chinese diplomatic missions in the country, President Donald Trump has said, hours after Washington ordered the closure of Beijing's consulate in Houston.

The US said it had shut down the consulate to "protect American intellectual property and private information".

The US move came after the Justice Department said that hackers working with the Chinese government targeted firms developing vaccines for the coronavirus and stole hundreds of millions of dollars worth of intellectual property and trade secrets from companies across the world.

The consulate in Houston, Texas, is one of five Chinese diplomatic missions in the US, not counting the embassy in Washington DC.

The US move came amid a growing number of disputes between the two countries ranging from the coronavirus outbreak, the new security law imposed on Hong Kong and the Uighur Muslims.

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"As far as closing additional embassies, it's always possible," Trump told reporters on Wednesday during a daily press briefing at the White House when asked if he is looking at closing more Chinese diplomatic missions in the US.

The US State Department in a brief statement on Wednesday said it has "directed the closure of PRC (People's Republic of China) Consulate General Houston, in order to protect American intellectual property and American's private information".

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said the US would not tolerate the PRC's violations of its sovereignty and intimidation of its people, just as it has not tolerated the PRC's unfair trade practices, theft of American jobs, and other egregious behaviour. 
She said Trump "insists on fairness and reciprocity in US-China relations."

During the press conference, Trump referred to the news reports of fire in the Chinese Consulate in Houston apparently due to burning of documents in its courtyard.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-houston-consulate-closed-to-protect-american-intellectual-property-us-315168">Also read |&nbsp;China's Houston consulate closed to 'protect American intellectual property': US</a>

The move to shutdown the Chinese consulate in Houston was welcomed by top American lawmakers.

Apart from the Chinese embassy in Washington, Beijing has an office at the United Nations and consulates in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago.

The US does not rule out the possibility of closing more Chinese diplomatic missions in the country, President Donald Trump has said, hours after Washington ordered the closure of Beijing's consulate in Houston.

The US does not rule out the possibility of closing more Chinese diplomatic missions in the country, President Donald Trump has said, hours after Washington ordered the closure of Beijing's consulate in Houston. The US said it had shut down the consulate to "protect American intellectual property and private information". The US move came after the Justice Department said that hackers working with the Chinese government targeted firms developing vaccines for the coronavirus and stole hundreds of millions of dollars worth of intellectual property and trade secrets from companies across the world. The consulate in Houston, Texas, is one of five Chinese diplomatic missions in the US, not counting the embassy in Washington DC. The US move came amid a growing number of disputes between the two countries ranging from the coronavirus outbreak, the new security law imposed on Hong Kong and the Uighur Muslims. Also read | Chinese state media blasts Houston consulate shutdown as Trump election gambit "As far as closing additional embassies, it's always possible," Trump told reporters on Wednesday during a daily press briefing at the White House when asked if he is looking at closing more Chinese diplomatic missions in the US. The US State Department in a brief statement on Wednesday said it has "directed the closure of PRC (People's Republic of China) Consulate General Houston, in order to protect American intellectual property and American's private information". State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said the US would not tolerate the PRC's violations of its sovereignty and intimidation of its people, just as it has not tolerated the PRC's unfair trade practices, theft of American jobs, and other egregious behaviour. She said Trump "insists on fairness and reciprocity in US-China relations." During the press conference, Trump referred to the news reports of fire in the Chinese Consulate in Houston apparently due to burning of documents in its courtyard. Also read | China's Houston consulate closed to 'protect American intellectual property': US The move to shutdown the Chinese consulate in Houston was welcomed by top American lawmakers. Apart from the Chinese embassy in Washington, Beijing has an office at the United Nations and consulates in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago.

Closure of more Chinese embassies 'possible', says Trump as US shuts down consulate in Houston

After the United States asked Chinese authorities to close its Houston consulate over alleged spying operations, China today warned its students to "be on guard" over "arbitrary interrogations and detentions".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-houston-consulate-closed-to-protect-american-intellectual-property-us-315168">Also Read:&nbsp;China's Houston consulate closed to 'protect American intellectual property', says&nbsp;US</a>

In a dramatic move on Wednesday, the US government ordered the Chinese consulate to close in order to "protect American intellectual property and American private information".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-indicts-two-chinese-nationals-of-espionage-315177/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US State Department said that China had engaged in spying operations adding that "these activities&nbsp;have increased markedly in scale and scope over the past few years".

The Chinese foreign ministry warning students, saying: "Recently, US law enforcement agencies have stepped up arbitrary interrogations, harassment, confiscation of personal belongings and detention targeting Chinese international students in the US."

Earlier in the day, there were reports of documents were being burned in the consulate as firefighters arrived but they were not allowed to enter the building.

Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said: "China urges the US to immediately withdraw its wrong decision, or China will definitely take a proper and necessary response."

"It is a political provocation unilaterally launched by the US side, which seriously violates international law... and the bilateral consular agreement between China and the US." it added.

Meanwhile, reports said China may shut the United States consulate in Wuhan which was the epicentre of the coronavirus, however, it has not been officially confirmed. 
&nbsp;

After the United States asked Chinese authorities to close its Houston consulate over alleged spying operations, China today warned its students to "be on guard" over "arbitrary interrogations and detentions".

After the United States asked Chinese authorities to close its Houston consulate over alleged spying operations, China today warned its students to "be on guard" over "arbitrary interrogations and detentions". Also Read: China's Houston consulate closed to 'protect American intellectual property', says US In a dramatic move on Wednesday, the US government ordered the Chinese consulate to close in order to "protect American intellectual property and American private information". Watch: The US State Department said that China had engaged in spying operations adding that "these activities have increased markedly in scale and scope over the past few years". The Chinese foreign ministry warning students, saying: "Recently, US law enforcement agencies have stepped up arbitrary interrogations, harassment, confiscation of personal belongings and detention targeting Chinese international students in the US." Earlier in the day, there were reports of documents were being burned in the consulate as firefighters arrived but they were not allowed to enter the building. Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said: "China urges the US to immediately withdraw its wrong decision, or China will definitely take a proper and necessary response." "It is a political provocation unilaterally launched by the US side, which seriously violates international law... and the bilateral consular agreement between China and the US." it added. Meanwhile, reports said China may shut the United States consulate in Wuhan which was the epicentre of the coronavirus, however, it has not been officially confirmed.

Houston consulate closure: China warns students in US over 'arbitrary interrogations and detentions'

The US State Department has said the recent closing of China's consulate in Houston was to ordered to protect Americans' intellectual property and private information.

Spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said that under the Vienna Convention states "have a duty not to interfere in the internal affairs" of the receiving country.

Earlier in the day, Beijing said the United States had ordered China to close its Houston consulate, terming it a "political provocation" that would further harm diplomatic relations.

The Chinese Consulate in Houston, opened in 1979, covers eight southern US states -- including Texas and Florida -- and has nearly one million people in the area registered at the consulate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-ordered-closure-of-houston-consulate-315137">Also read | China says US ordered closure of Houston consulate</a>

Furthermore, Ortagus said the US would not tolerate Chinese violations of their "sovereignty and intimidation of our people, just as we have not tolerated the PRC's unfair trade practices, theft of American jobs, and other egregious behavior."

"We have directed the closure of PRC Consulate General Houston, in order to protect American intellectual property and Americans' private information," she said, without giving any more details.

The move comes as tensions soar between the world's two biggest economies on a number of fronts.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump's administration has ramped up pressure on China on a wide range of issues, imposing sanctions on Chinese officials over policies in Tibet and Xinjiang.

(with inputs from agencies)

The US State Department has said the recent closing of China's consulate in Houston was to ordered to protect Americans' intellectual property and private information.

The US State Department has said the recent closing of China's consulate in Houston was to ordered to protect Americans' intellectual property and private information. Spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said that under the Vienna Convention states "have a duty not to interfere in the internal affairs" of the receiving country. Earlier in the day, Beijing said the United States had ordered China to close its Houston consulate, terming it a "political provocation" that would further harm diplomatic relations. The Chinese Consulate in Houston, opened in 1979, covers eight southern US states -- including Texas and Florida -- and has nearly one million people in the area registered at the consulate. Also read | China says US ordered closure of Houston consulate Furthermore, Ortagus said the US would not tolerate Chinese violations of their "sovereignty and intimidation of our people, just as we have not tolerated the PRC's unfair trade practices, theft of American jobs, and other egregious behavior." "We have directed the closure of PRC Consulate General Houston, in order to protect American intellectual property and Americans' private information," she said, without giving any more details. The move comes as tensions soar between the world's two biggest economies on a number of fronts. US President Donald Trump's administration has ramped up pressure on China on a wide range of issues, imposing sanctions on Chinese officials over policies in Tibet and Xinjiang. (with inputs from agencies)

China's Houston consulate closed to 'protect American intellectual property': US

The main facilitator of the terror attack on the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-firing-reported-outside-chinese-consulate-in-karachi-178903&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi2uKKQxJXgAhXLinAKHccMB4UQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3lzjLgFHfUcS91ShFytqbY"> Chinese consulate in Karachi </a>in November last year has been arrested from the UAE, Pakistan police has announced here.

On November 23, three heavily <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/alleged-leader-of-chinese-consulate-attack-in-pakistan-reported-killed-186752">armed militants</a> attempted to enter the Chinese consulate in the 'high security zone' of Karachi's Clifton area but were shot dead in an encounter with law enforcers.&nbsp;

The gun-and-grenade assault also claimed the lives of two police officials and two visa applicants, as well as injuring a private guard of the foreign mission.

A senior official of the Counterterrorism Department (CTD) of Sindh on Tuesday province said that the suspect named Rashid Baloch was arrested by the UAE's law-enforcement agency in Sharjah a few days ago. He was marked out as the key man behind the attack on the Chinese consulate, that was foiled by security forces but left at least seven people dead.

"Rashid Baloch alias Abdullah is not only the facilitator of the attack but also a key man of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA)," said DIG CTD Abdullah Sheikh.&nbsp;

"After the findings of the initial investigation, we were closely monitoring suspects and finally found his connection with the episode. The interesting fact, that we gathered through technological support, is that he was very close to the Chinese consulate when it was attacked and personally monitored the assault".

Rashid received Rs 949,000 to his bank account just days before the attack and he arranged all the finances, logistics and cash support to facilitate the attackers, he said.

Earlier this month, Additional IG Karachi Amir Shaikh claimed that India and its Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) assisted the attack carried out by terrorists belonging to the banned BLA.&nbsp;

The Indian government rejected the allegation, calling it fabricated and a scurrilous attempt.

"We completely reject these fabricated and scurrilous attempts to levy accusations on India," said the Ministry of External Affairs.

"Instead of maliciously pointing fingers at others for such terrorist incidents, Pakistan needs to look inwards and undertake credible action against support to terrorism and terror infrastructure in its territories," it said.

Earlier this month, the Karachi police claimed to have arrested some five facilitators from this city in connection with the attack which they claimed was carried out to "sabotage" the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The main facilitator of the terror attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi in November last year has been arrested from the UAE, Pakistan police has announced here.

The main facilitator of the terror attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi in November last year has been arrested from the UAE, Pakistan police has announced here. On November 23, three heavily armed militants attempted to enter the Chinese consulate in the 'high security zone' of Karachi's Clifton area but were shot dead in an encounter with law enforcers. The gun-and-grenade assault also claimed the lives of two police officials and two visa applicants, as well as injuring a private guard of the foreign mission. A senior official of the Counterterrorism Department (CTD) of Sindh on Tuesday province said that the suspect named Rashid Baloch was arrested by the UAE's law-enforcement agency in Sharjah a few days ago. He was marked out as the key man behind the attack on the Chinese consulate, that was foiled by security forces but left at least seven people dead. "Rashid Baloch alias Abdullah is not only the facilitator of the attack but also a key man of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA)," said DIG CTD Abdullah Sheikh. "After the findings of the initial investigation, we were closely monitoring suspects and finally found his connection with the episode. The interesting fact, that we gathered through technological support, is that he was very close to the Chinese consulate when it was attacked and personally monitored the assault". Rashid received Rs 949,000 to his bank account just days before the attack and he arranged all the finances, logistics and cash support to facilitate the attackers, he said. Earlier this month, Additional IG Karachi Amir Shaikh claimed that India and its Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) assisted the attack carried out by terrorists belonging to the banned BLA. The Indian government rejected the allegation, calling it fabricated and a scurrilous attempt. "We completely reject these fabricated and scurrilous attempts to levy accusations on India," said the Ministry of External Affairs. "Instead of maliciously pointing fingers at others for such terrorist incidents, Pakistan needs to look inwards and undertake credible action against support to terrorism and terror infrastructure in its territories," it said. Earlier this month, the Karachi police claimed to have arrested some five facilitators from this city in connection with the attack which they claimed was carried out to "sabotage" the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Pakistan says main facilitator of attack on Chinese consulate arrested in Sharjah

One of the alleged masterminds of an attack by a Pakistani separatist group on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-firing-reported-outside-chinese-consulate-in-karachi-178903">Chinese consulate in Karachi </a>last month has been killed along with five associates, the insurgent group said on Wednesday.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which opposes projects linked to China's Belt and Road infrastructure initiative in resource-rich Baluchistan, issued a statement on Tuesday confirming the death of Aslam Baloch, one of its leaders.

"The important BLA commander Aslam Baloch, along with five associates in the organisation were martyred in an enemy attack on Monday," Jiand Baloch, a spokesman for the separatist group said in a statement that gave no further details.

Pakistan's Samaa Television reported that Aslam was killed along with a number of his commanders in a suicide attack in Aino Maina in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, across the border from Baluchistan.

There was no claim of responsibility for the killings and a spokesman for the Pakistani foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

Last month, three attackers stormed the Chinese consulate in Karachi, killing four people. Security forces killed the three attackers who were carrying explosives.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attack-on-chinese-consulate-not-surprising-imran-khan-179053">Pakistan</a> has long accused its old rival India of supporting insurgents in Baluchistan. India denies helping Baluchistan insurgents and accuses Pakistan of nurturing Islamist militants throughout the region.

China has funded development of a deepwater port at Gwadar in south Baluchistan and is also investing in other projects as part of the giant China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Baluchistan, on the borders of Afghanistan and Iran, has rich mineral and natural gas reserves but is Pakistan's poorest province.

Separatists have for decades campaigned against what they see as the unfair exploitation of resources, in particular, natural gas and minerals.

One of the alleged masterminds of an attack by a Pakistani separatist group on the Chinese consulate in Karachi last month has been killed along with five associates, the insurgent group said on Wednesday.

One of the alleged masterminds of an attack by a Pakistani separatist group on the Chinese consulate in Karachi last month has been killed along with five associates, the insurgent group said on Wednesday. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which opposes projects linked to China's Belt and Road infrastructure initiative in resource-rich Baluchistan, issued a statement on Tuesday confirming the death of Aslam Baloch, one of its leaders. "The important BLA commander Aslam Baloch, along with five associates in the organisation were martyred in an enemy attack on Monday," Jiand Baloch, a spokesman for the separatist group said in a statement that gave no further details. Pakistan's Samaa Television reported that Aslam was killed along with a number of his commanders in a suicide attack in Aino Maina in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, across the border from Baluchistan. There was no claim of responsibility for the killings and a spokesman for the Pakistani foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Last month, three attackers stormed the Chinese consulate in Karachi, killing four people. Security forces killed the three attackers who were carrying explosives. Pakistan has long accused its old rival India of supporting insurgents in Baluchistan. India denies helping Baluchistan insurgents and accuses Pakistan of nurturing Islamist militants throughout the region. China has funded development of a deepwater port at Gwadar in south Baluchistan and is also investing in other projects as part of the giant China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Baluchistan, on the borders of Afghanistan and Iran, has rich mineral and natural gas reserves but is Pakistan's poorest province. Separatists have for decades campaigned against what they see as the unfair exploitation of resources, in particular, natural gas and minerals.

Pakistan: Alleged mastermind of Karachi's Chinese consulate attack killed

China on Tuesday said Pakistan has assured that it will provide full security to its citizens and the CPEC projects following the recent terrorist attack on its Consulate in Karachi and that any attempt to sabotage their friendship would not succeed.

Three heavily-armed suicide bombers stormed the Chinese consulate in Pakistan's largest city on November 23, killing four people including two policemen before being shot dead by security forces which foiled the daring attack in the high-security zone.

The attack was soon claimed by the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) which said it would not tolerate "any Chinese military expansionist endeavours on Baloch soil".

"Pakistan has made it clear that they will get to the bottom of this attack, crackdown on the terrorist organisation and enhance the security of Chinese citizens, institutions and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters here.

Praising the swift action by Pakistan's security personnel in warding off the attack, Geng said, "this attack once again showcased the mutual trust, mutual support and friendship between the two governments and two peoples."

He said once again it proved that China-Pakistan relationship is higher than mountains and deeper than the sea.&nbsp;

"We stand by each other through everything and we are all-weather strategic partners in every way," he said.

"I want to reiterate that no attempt to sabotage our friendship will succeed. We will maintain a close communication with Pakistani side. We believe in their ability to ensure domestic security, stability and in taking tough measures to ensure Chinese interests in Pakistan and ensuring the security of Chinese citizens and institutions there," he said.

Also, some institutions and netizens in China are collecting donations to help the families of the policemen killed and injured in the attack. 
Resource-rich Balochistan is at the heart of the Beijing's ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).&nbsp;

The BLA is opposed to the CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, alleging that the project was aimed at exploiting the resources of the province.&nbsp;

China on Tuesday said Pakistan has assured that it will provide full security to its citizens and the CPEC projects following the recent terrorist attack on its Consulate in Karachi and that any attempt to sabotage their friendship would not succeed.

China on Tuesday said Pakistan has assured that it will provide full security to its citizens and the CPEC projects following the recent terrorist attack on its Consulate in Karachi and that any attempt to sabotage their friendship would not succeed. Three heavily-armed suicide bombers stormed the Chinese consulate in Pakistan's largest city on November 23, killing four people including two policemen before being shot dead by security forces which foiled the daring attack in the high-security zone. The attack was soon claimed by the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) which said it would not tolerate "any Chinese military expansionist endeavours on Baloch soil". "Pakistan has made it clear that they will get to the bottom of this attack, crackdown on the terrorist organisation and enhance the security of Chinese citizens, institutions and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters here. Praising the swift action by Pakistan's security personnel in warding off the attack, Geng said, "this attack once again showcased the mutual trust, mutual support and friendship between the two governments and two peoples." He said once again it proved that China-Pakistan relationship is higher than mountains and deeper than the sea. "We stand by each other through everything and we are all-weather strategic partners in every way," he said. "I want to reiterate that no attempt to sabotage our friendship will succeed. We will maintain a close communication with Pakistani side. We believe in their ability to ensure domestic security, stability and in taking tough measures to ensure Chinese interests in Pakistan and ensuring the security of Chinese citizens and institutions there," he said. Also, some institutions and netizens in China are collecting donations to help the families of the policemen killed and injured in the attack. Resource-rich Balochistan is at the heart of the Beijing's ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The BLA is opposed to the CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, alleging that the project was aimed at exploiting the resources of the province.

Pakistan assured full security to our nationals, CPEC following terror attack on Consulate: China

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said the attack at a Chinese consulate in Karachi on Friday (November 23) was "not surprising".

Three suicide attackers stormed the consulate amid a series of gunshots and an explosion, but were killed before they could get into the building in a car packed with explosives, police said.

At least two police officers were killed in the attack, which was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist insurgent group that opposes Chinese projects in the resource-rich southwestern province of Baluchistan. All Chinese staff at the consulate were safe, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and China's Foreign Ministry said.

The assault was the most prominent attack in Pakistan against China, a neighbour and close ally which is pouring billions of dollars into Pakistan as part of its Belt and Road initiative. It was also the highest-profile operation in years by the BLA, which mostly wages a low-level insurgency in Baluchistan. The group also calls itself the Balochistan Liberation Army.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said the attack at a Chinese consulate in Karachi on Friday (November 23) was "not surprising". Three suicide attackers stormed the consulate amid a series of gunshots and an explosion, but were killed before they could get into the building in a car packed with explosives, police said.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said the attack at a Chinese consulate in Karachi on Friday (November 23) was "not surprising". Three suicide attackers stormed the consulate amid a series of gunshots and an explosion, but were killed before they could get into the building in a car packed with explosives, police said. At least two police officers were killed in the attack, which was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist insurgent group that opposes Chinese projects in the resource-rich southwestern province of Baluchistan. All Chinese staff at the consulate were safe, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and China's Foreign Ministry said. The assault was the most prominent attack in Pakistan against China, a neighbour and close ally which is pouring billions of dollars into Pakistan as part of its Belt and Road initiative. It was also the highest-profile operation in years by the BLA, which mostly wages a low-level insurgency in Baluchistan. The group also calls itself the Balochistan Liberation Army.

Attack on Chinese consulate 'not surprising': Imran Khan

A powerful bomb blast ripped through a busy market outside a religious seminary in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday, killing at least 30 people and injuring over 40 others, officials said.

The explosive material was planted in a bike in the Friday Market (Juma Bazar) near an imambargah, a Shia religious place, in Orakzai tribal district's Kalaya area.

People were buying warm clothes when the bomb went off, officials said.

At least 30 people were killed while more than 40 others injured, Geo news quoted district administration officials as saying.

Officials said that most of the victims were minority Shia Muslims, who in the past were also targeted in the area.

"Three children were among those killed. The remote-controlled bomb was attached to a motorcycle," officials said.

The area has been cordoned off and investigation into the incident is underway.

An emergency has been declared in the region's hospitals to handle the situation.

Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari blamed the US failure in Afghanistan for the attack and warned Pakistan to be prepared for more such incidents. 
Condemn the horrific terror attack in Orakzai tribal area.

"As the US fails in Afghanistan, Pakistan should be prepared for fallout and we must ensure greater security for our tribal areas especially protection of our people," she said tweets.

No group claimed responsibility of the attack but the Taliban militants often carry out such attacks.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police are on high alert following the Orakzai blast and a separate attack on the Chinese Consulate in Karachi on Friday morning.

"Our enemies are not happy with peace in the province," provincial Chief Minister Mehmood Khan said after the attack.

It was the second attack on Friday as security forces foiled a bid by militants to enter the Chinese consulate in Karachi and killed three attackers.

In 2011, 30 people including 10 cops, were killed and over 50 injured when a suicide bomber rammed his explosive-laden van into the building of the Communication and Works Department.&nbsp;

A powerful bomb blast ripped through a busy market outside a religious seminary in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday, killing at least 30 people and injuring over 40 others, officials said.

A powerful bomb blast ripped through a busy market outside a religious seminary in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday, killing at least 30 people and injuring over 40 others, officials said. The explosive material was planted in a bike in the Friday Market (Juma Bazar) near an imambargah, a Shia religious place, in Orakzai tribal district's Kalaya area. People were buying warm clothes when the bomb went off, officials said. At least 30 people were killed while more than 40 others injured, Geo news quoted district administration officials as saying. Officials said that most of the victims were minority Shia Muslims, who in the past were also targeted in the area. "Three children were among those killed. The remote-controlled bomb was attached to a motorcycle," officials said. The area has been cordoned off and investigation into the incident is underway. An emergency has been declared in the region's hospitals to handle the situation. Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari blamed the US failure in Afghanistan for the attack and warned Pakistan to be prepared for more such incidents. Condemn the horrific terror attack in Orakzai tribal area. "As the US fails in Afghanistan, Pakistan should be prepared for fallout and we must ensure greater security for our tribal areas especially protection of our people," she said tweets. No group claimed responsibility of the attack but the Taliban militants often carry out such attacks. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police are on high alert following the Orakzai blast and a separate attack on the Chinese Consulate in Karachi on Friday morning. "Our enemies are not happy with peace in the province," provincial Chief Minister Mehmood Khan said after the attack. It was the second attack on Friday as security forces foiled a bid by militants to enter the Chinese consulate in Karachi and killed three attackers. In 2011, 30 people including 10 cops, were killed and over 50 injured when a suicide bomber rammed his explosive-laden van into the building of the Communication and Works Department.

30 killed, 40 injured in powerful blast in Pakistan's northwest