Pakistan's ex-Federal Board of Revenue Chairman Shabbar Zaidi blamed China for his country's economic crisis. This comes amid reports that only 38 out of 90 projects envisaged under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor have been completed so far. China remains Pakistan's biggest creditor.

Ex-Top Pak Official Blames Economic Woes on China: Here's How CPEC Has Been a Failure

China and Pakistan are reshaping global trade routes through the $62 billion [China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)], a key [Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project] that connects Xinjiang to the Arabian Sea via Gwadar Port. This infrastructure, featuring highways and railways, bypasses the Malacca Strait, reducing maritime risks and shortening energy supply routes.


How China, Pakistan Are Reshaping Trade Routes

Traders on the Karakoram Highway in Gilgit-Baltistan have been protesting for the fourth consecutive day over the levying of taxes by the Pakistan Government. They argue that Gilgit-Baltistan is a disputed region, even though Pakistan can administer it, they can't impose taxes.Protestors have been demanding the clearance of over 240 consignments stuck at Sost Dry port for the past seven months.&nbsp;Ashfaq Ahmed, President of Gilgit Baltistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, says that employment of 20 thousand traders are associated with this port and these traders are being impacted by the implementation of the port.&nbsp;

According to a report by BBC Urdu, the 24-hour sit-in protest has greatly impacted tourism. Tourists have been stranded on both sides due to the closure of the Karakoram Highway.It had been four days since the protest started, till Monday, and the traders have warned of extended action if the demands are not met. The protest was called by the Pak-China Traders Action Committee: an alliance between the Gilgit-Baltistan Importer and Exporter Association, Gilgit Nagar Chamber of Commerce, and small trade Associations from Nagar, Hunza and Gilgit.&nbsp;The traders say that the Gilgit-Baltistan region has no major source of income, and the Khunjerab Pass between China and Pakistan was the biggest source of income for the locals.Pakistan and China have a border agreement of 1985 that permits permanent residents of Gilgit-Baltistan to exchange goods across the border using traditional barter methods.&nbsp;The traders say that policies of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and the Customs collectorate are not allowing the domiciles of the GB region with a border pass to trade with Xinjiang of China. Despite the disputed status of the region Pakistan Revenue Department, through a notification, established a check post for sales tax.&nbsp;"Small traders have been exploited for the last five years with various excuses, which we strongly condemn," read a press release from the Gilgit Baltistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.&nbsp;The traders demand full exemption from all illegal taxes, instead of customs duty. They also want a Special Trade Facilitation Package because of the special status of the region.The traders' associations have warned that they will approach the Pakistani Supreme Court and international forums such as the International Court of Justice if their demands are not met.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Protesters Shut Down the China-Pakistan Highway in Gilgit-Baltistan for four consecutive days. Trade and tourism came to a halt as local traders protested federal taxes, calling them unconstitutional in the disputed region.

Traders on the Karakoram Highway in Gilgit-Baltistan have been protesting for the fourth consecutive day over the levying of taxes by the Pakistan Government. They argue that Gilgit-Baltistan is a disputed region, even though Pakistan can administer it, they can't impose taxes. Protestors have been demanding the clearance of over 240 consignments stuck at Sost Dry port for the past seven months. Ashfaq Ahmed, President of Gilgit Baltistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, says that employment of 20 thousand traders are associated with this port and these traders are being impacted by the implementation of the port.

Protesters shut down the China-Pakistan Highway in Gilgit-Baltistan for four consecutive days. Trade and tourism came to a halt as local traders protested federal taxes, calling them unconstitutional in the disputed region.

Gilgit-Baltistan protesters block CPEC route over tax dispute

During an event in Islamabad, China's Minister of the International Department, Liu Jianchao, said "Business environment cannot improve without security.' Recently, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also returned nearly empty-handed from a trip to China where he had hoped to secure major investments for Pakistan, especially through a revival of CPEC. But with the flagship project of the BRI suffering in Pakistan due to internal turmoil, is China growing tired of Pakistan? What else does this message from the Chinese Minister want to convey to Pakistan?

Gravitas: CPEC in danger? China sets conditions on Pakistan for new BRI investments

Former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif has embarked on a secretive five-day visit to China, the agenda of which no one knows for sure. However, speculations are aplenty.

Till last year, the 74-year-old Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo was in a four-year self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom. Following his return to Pakistan, this will be Nawaz's first foreign tour. He will be accompanied by Maryam Nawaz's son, his grandson, Junaid Safdar and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

But, what is the reason behind the almost one-week trip? These are the speculative agendas.

<h2>'Personal visit'</h2>

As per a report by Pakistani channel Geo News on Monday (Apr 22), it is a "personal visit" for medical reasons.

While the exact reason is not mentioned anywhere, Dawn newspaper reports that Nawaz Sharif has never visited China for medical reasons, instead he prefers to travel to London, where he has already undergone multiple procedures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistan-pm-nawaz-sharif-to-fly-to-china-for-medical-checkup-report-says-713943">Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to fly to China for medical checkup, report says</a>

In November 2019, the elder Sharif was granted permission to travel overseas for medical reasons by a high court. This was done after medical reports from his doctors indicated that he required immediate attention.

<h2>'Special assignment'</h2>

Another speculation, as per Dawn, is that Nawaz Sharif's visit to China is over a 'special assignment,' the details of which were not discussed even with the PML-N leadership.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-wife-bushra-bibi-given-clean-health-chit-after-claims-her-food-was-poisoned-713540">Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi's health is fine, say doctors after claims her food was poisoned</a>

"The programme of [Nawaz] Sharif’s visit to China has been kept secret from the party and the PML-N government. Perhaps some very close associates of the elder Sharif would know the exact nature of his visit," reported the publication, citing a source close to the Sharif family.

Dawn's source said the 'special assignment' could not be carried out by Nawaz's younger brother, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

<h2>Pakistan-China deal?</h2>

Some publications are speculating that the PML supremo remains active in political affairs at both domestic and international levels. &nbsp;

Sharif is reportedly scheduled to meet various business leaders and heads of Chinese companies.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Former Pak PM Nawaz Sharif on a 5-day China visit

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As per Dunya News, this indicates that the Pakistan ruling party is relying on the goodwill Nawaz enjoys in China to attract foreign investment and maintain cordial relations between the two friendly states.&nbsp;

Interestingly, it was Nawaz Sharif, who helped the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) materialise. The report further speculates, "Given the economic crisis Pakistan has been facing, the coalition government led by PML-N wants to revive CPEC to generate much-needed economic activity in the country."

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif has embarked on a secretive five-day visit to China, the agenda of which no one knows for sure. However, speculations are aplenty.

Former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif has embarked on a secretive five-day visit to China, the agenda of which no one knows for sure. However, speculations are aplenty. Till last year, the 74-year-old Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo was in a four-year self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom. Following his return to Pakistan, this will be Nawaz's first foreign tour. He will be accompanied by Maryam Nawaz's son, his grandson, Junaid Safdar and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. But, what is the reason behind the almost one-week trip? These are the speculative agendas. 'Personal visit' As per a report by Pakistani channel Geo News on Monday (Apr 22), it is a "personal visit" for medical reasons. While the exact reason is not mentioned anywhere, Dawn newspaper reports that Nawaz Sharif has never visited China for medical reasons, instead he prefers to travel to London, where he has already undergone multiple procedures. Also read | Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to fly to China for medical checkup, report says In November 2019, the elder Sharif was granted permission to travel overseas for medical reasons by a high court. This was done after medical reports from his doctors indicated that he required immediate attention. 'Special assignment' Another speculation, as per Dawn, is that Nawaz Sharif's visit to China is over a 'special assignment,' the details of which were not discussed even with the PML-N leadership. Also read | Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi's health is fine, say doctors after claims her food was poisoned "The programme of [Nawaz] Sharif’s visit to China has been kept secret from the party and the PML-N government. Perhaps some very close associates of the elder Sharif would know the exact nature of his visit," reported the publication, citing a source close to the Sharif family. Dawn's source said the 'special assignment' could not be carried out by Nawaz's younger brother, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Pakistan-China deal? Some publications are speculating that the PML supremo remains active in political affairs at both domestic and international levels. Sharif is reportedly scheduled to meet various business leaders and heads of Chinese companies. Watch | Former Pak PM Nawaz Sharif on a 5-day China visit As per Dunya News, this indicates that the Pakistan ruling party is relying on the goodwill Nawaz enjoys in China to attract foreign investment and maintain cordial relations between the two friendly states. Interestingly, it was Nawaz Sharif, who helped the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) materialise. The report further speculates, "Given the economic crisis Pakistan has been facing, the coalition government led by PML-N wants to revive CPEC to generate much-needed economic activity in the country." (With inputs from agencies)

Why is Nawaz Sharif visiting China? Speculations rife as PML-N supremo embarks on secretive visit

A team of Chinese investigators reached Pakistan on Friday (March 29) to probe a suicide attack that killed five of its nationals earlier this week in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;

Five Chinese nationals were among six people killed in a suicide attack on a convoy that was targeted by a suicide bomber who rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into them. This was the third major attack on Chinese interests in Pakistan in less than a week.

The slain Chinese engineers and workers were reportedly heading&nbsp;to the Dasu Dam, the biggest hydropower project in northwest Pakistan&nbsp;on Tuesday (March 29), when the suicide bombing took place.

A Pakistani driver was also killed during the&nbsp;attack in Shangla, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, over 270 km north of Islamabad.

Beijing condemned the attack and asked Pakistan to conduct a detailed investigation and ensure the protection of thousands of its nationals who work on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, part of Chinese leader Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative to revive the ancient Silk route for international trade.

Also watch |&nbsp;China calls for probe after five Chinese engineers killed in attack in Pakistan

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Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday (March 30)&nbsp;briefed the Chinese investigators about Pakistan’s probe into the attack, according to a government statement.

Earlier on Wednesday (March 27), Pakistani officials shared with the Chinese embassy the preliminary findings of their probe into the attack.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide bombing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-halts-work-on-two-projects-in-pakistan-following-suicide-bomb-attack-705523">China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack that killed 5 Chinese</a>

Chinese nationals working on projects related to China Pakistan Economic Corridor have been targeted by militants in recent years.

In July 2021, at least 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed when a suicide bomber detonated explosives in his vehicle near a bus carrying Chinese and Pakistani engineers and labourers, following which the Chinese companies suspended work for some time.

(With inputs from agencies)

A team of Chinese investigators reached Pakistan on Friday (March 29) to probe a suicide attack that killed five of its nationals earlier this week in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

A team of Chinese investigators reached Pakistan on Friday (March 29) to probe a suicide attack that killed five of its nationals earlier this week in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Five Chinese nationals were among six people killed in a suicide attack on a convoy that was targeted by a suicide bomber who rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into them. This was the third major attack on Chinese interests in Pakistan in less than a week. The slain Chinese engineers and workers were reportedly heading to the Dasu Dam, the biggest hydropower project in northwest Pakistan on Tuesday (March 29), when the suicide bombing took place. A Pakistani driver was also killed during the attack in Shangla, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, over 270 km north of Islamabad. Beijing condemned the attack and asked Pakistan to conduct a detailed investigation and ensure the protection of thousands of its nationals who work on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, part of Chinese leader Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative to revive the ancient Silk route for international trade. Also watch | China calls for probe after five Chinese engineers killed in attack in Pakistan × Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday (March 30) briefed the Chinese investigators about Pakistan’s probe into the attack, according to a government statement. Earlier on Wednesday (March 27), Pakistani officials shared with the Chinese embassy the preliminary findings of their probe into the attack. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide bombing. Also read | China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack that killed 5 Chinese Chinese nationals working on projects related to China Pakistan Economic Corridor have been targeted by militants in recent years. In July 2021, at least 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed when a suicide bomber detonated explosives in his vehicle near a bus carrying Chinese and Pakistani engineers and labourers, following which the Chinese companies suspended work for some time. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese team arrives in Pakistan to probe Shangla suicide bombing that killed six

Following the death of five Chinese engineers in a suicide attack, China has halted work at three dam sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In 10 days, there were three attacks on Chinese interests. Is China rethinking its investments in Pakistan? China has poured at least $65 Billion into Pakistan through CPEC.

Gravitas: Baloch Terror: Angry China snubs Pakistan, halts work at 3 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa dams

The recent attacks on Chinese infrastructure in Pakistan have once shed light on the challenge of Baloch insurgency that the country faces. But the insurgency began decades ago. What fuels BLA's attacks on Pakistani forces and Chinese-invested projects?

Gravitas: Pakistan's Balochistan problem: Why BLA targets China's CPEC projects

An official US report has indicated that the Pakistani media has come under the claws of China as Beijing is vying to reshape the information environment with the help of a "nerve centre", termed as an "example of Beijing’s ambition to assume direct control over a close partner’s domestic information environment."&nbsp;

A special report under the title "How the People's Republic of China seeks to reshape the global information environment", pointed at the information manipulation being carried out by China.&nbsp;It slammed China for seeking to gain "significant" control over Pakistani media.&nbsp;With Pakistan, the report said, China sought to deepen cooperation on “combating disinformation,” including under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Media Forum.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikkim-floods-dalai-lama-expresses-grief-as-14-dead-102-missing-over-3000-stranded-in-flash-floods-642752">Dalai Lama expresses grief as 14 dead, 102 missing in Sikkim floods</a>

It went on to say that Beijing and Islamabad are using the same forum to thwart what it sees as propaganda and “malicious disinformation”.&nbsp;For this, the special report indicated, both countries have launched initiatives like the “CPEC Rapid Response Information Network” and, most recently, pledged to launch the China-Pakistan Media Corridor (CPMC).&nbsp;

<h2>Nerve centre</h2>

The report also mentioned how both nations negotiated to establish a jointly operated “nerve centre” to monitor and shape Pakistan’s information environment. This was in 2021 when China sought to negotiate significant control over Pakistani media as part of the China-Pakistan Media Corridor.&nbsp;

"The scope of the proposal – which it does not appear Islamabad seriously entertained – and the fact that the mechanisms it detailed appeared to disproportionately benefit Beijing is notable as an explicit example of Beijing’s ambition to assume direct control over a close partner’s domestic information environment," the report read.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-fukushima-nuclear-plant-begins-release-of-second-batch-of-treated-radioactive-wastewater-642747">Fukushima nuclear plant releases treated radioactive wastewater's second batch</a>

"The PRC’s draft concept paper called for the PRC and Pakistan governments to establish a “nerve center” to monitor Pakistan’s information environment by streamlining inputs from think tanks, opinion leaders, CPEC study centers, media organizations, PRC companies, and even local Confucius Institutes," it added.&nbsp;

Giving further details of the proposed nerve centre, the report said that the nations would have relied on “three mechanisms” and “two platforms” to carry out this mission.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/isro-chief-attends-74th-international-astronautical-congress-642768">ISRO Chief attends 74th International Astronautical Congress</a>

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"The mechanisms would have provided means to convert 'important reports'&nbsp;into Urdu products to sway popular opinion; provide PRC Embassy reports directly to Pakistan’s official press release system; and monitor and respond to public criticism about the PRC. The two proposed platforms called for the creation of a joint PRC-Pakistan authoritative system for 'dispelling rumours'&nbsp;and a newsfeed application to promote approved news to the local market," it added.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

An official US report has indicated that the Pakistani media has come under the claws of China as Beijing is vying to reshape the information environment with the help of a "nerve centre", termed as an "example of Beijing’s ambition to assume direct control over a close partner’s domestic information environment.

An official US report has indicated that the Pakistani media has come under the claws of China as Beijing is vying to reshape the information environment with the help of a "nerve centre", termed as an "example of Beijing’s ambition to assume direct control over a close partner’s domestic information environment." A special report under the title "How the People's Republic of China seeks to reshape the global information environment", pointed at the information manipulation being carried out by China. It slammed China for seeking to gain "significant" control over Pakistani media. With Pakistan, the report said, China sought to deepen cooperation on “combating disinformation,” including under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Media Forum. Also Read | Dalai Lama expresses grief as 14 dead, 102 missing in Sikkim floods It went on to say that Beijing and Islamabad are using the same forum to thwart what it sees as propaganda and “malicious disinformation”. For this, the special report indicated, both countries have launched initiatives like the “CPEC Rapid Response Information Network” and, most recently, pledged to launch the China-Pakistan Media Corridor (CPMC). Nerve centre The report also mentioned how both nations negotiated to establish a jointly operated “nerve centre” to monitor and shape Pakistan’s information environment. This was in 2021 when China sought to negotiate significant control over Pakistani media as part of the China-Pakistan Media Corridor. "The scope of the proposal – which it does not appear Islamabad seriously entertained – and the fact that the mechanisms it detailed appeared to disproportionately benefit Beijing is notable as an explicit example of Beijing’s ambition to assume direct control over a close partner’s domestic information environment," the report read. Also Read | Fukushima nuclear plant releases treated radioactive wastewater's second batch "The PRC’s draft concept paper called for the PRC and Pakistan governments to establish a “nerve center” to monitor Pakistan’s information environment by streamlining inputs from think tanks, opinion leaders, CPEC study centers, media organizations, PRC companies, and even local Confucius Institutes," it added. Giving further details of the proposed nerve centre, the report said that the nations would have relied on “three mechanisms” and “two platforms” to carry out this mission. Watch | ISRO Chief attends 74th International Astronautical Congress × "The mechanisms would have provided means to convert 'important reports' into Urdu products to sway popular opinion; provide PRC Embassy reports directly to Pakistan’s official press release system; and monitor and respond to public criticism about the PRC. The two proposed platforms called for the creation of a joint PRC-Pakistan authoritative system for 'dispelling rumours' and a newsfeed application to promote approved news to the local market," it added. 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. ×

China vying to control Pakistani media with the help of proposed 'nerve centre': US report

Despite Pakistan’s repeated requests, China has declined to inject fresh investments into the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, Nikkei Asia reported Monday (Oct 2), citing minutes of a high-level meeting between the officials of both countries.

Pakistan wanted China to add more projects, related to energy, climate change, electricity transmission and tourism, under the CPEC. However, Beijing showed no enthusiasm. Beijing also declined a proposal by Islamabad to build a 500-kilovolt transmission line from Gwadar port to the national electricity grid in Karachi.&nbsp;

Moreover, China also refused to entertain Pakistan’s plea to move a 300-megawatt coal-fired power plant from Gwadar to another location. Islamabad’s plan was to use domestic-produced coal in the new location, instead of imported coal from China.

<h2>Why China is developing cold feet?</h2>

Experts blame China’s reluctance to invest more in Pakistan on the deteriorating security situation and persistent political instability, especially after the ouster of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. His government was toppled in April 2022, triggering massive civil unrest and protests against the powerful army.

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan: Lashkar-E-Tayyiba operative killed in Karachi

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The second biggest concern for China is security. "Chinese believe that security of their personnel and assets is in jeopardy in Pakistan," James M. Dorsey, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, was quoted as saying by Nikkei Asia.

Increasing terror attacks across Pakistan have only fueled such concerns.&nbsp;

<h2>No economic sense</h2>

Some experts also say that China no longer believes investments in the crises-hit country will yield any return. Pakistan’s economy continues to reel under a debt crisis, with the country struggling to pay back $1.2 billion in overdue payments.

Muhammad Tayyab Safdar, assistant professor of global studies at the University of Virginia, says, “[The Chinese will] still make money, but with much angst, at least in the power sector."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/catastrophic-earthquake-to-strike-pakistan-dutch-scientist-makes-startling-prediction-641802">Also read:&nbsp;Catastrophic earthquake to strike Pakistan? Dutch scientist makes startling prediction</a>

According to Jeremy Garlick, an associate professor of international relations at Prague University of Economics and Business, “China does not believe anymore that it can get economic returns from CPEC."

<h2>Pakistan still optimistic</h2>

According to Pakistani officials interviewed by Nikkei Asia, the government is still optimistic that China will resume CPEC investments after elections are over in January next year.

Another Pakistani analyst Qamar Cheema stressed that Pakistan, a country of 240 million, is too important to be ignored and that Beijing would step up investments after negotiations with the government with a fresh mandate.

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&nbsp;

Despite Pakistan’s repeated requests, China has declined to inject fresh investments into the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, Nikkei Asia reported Monday (Oct 2), citing minutes of a high-level meeting between the officials of both countries.

Despite Pakistan’s repeated requests, China has declined to inject fresh investments into the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, Nikkei Asia reported Monday (Oct 2), citing minutes of a high-level meeting between the officials of both countries. Pakistan wanted China to add more projects, related to energy, climate change, electricity transmission and tourism, under the CPEC. However, Beijing showed no enthusiasm. Beijing also declined a proposal by Islamabad to build a 500-kilovolt transmission line from Gwadar port to the national electricity grid in Karachi. Moreover, China also refused to entertain Pakistan’s plea to move a 300-megawatt coal-fired power plant from Gwadar to another location. Islamabad’s plan was to use domestic-produced coal in the new location, instead of imported coal from China. Why China is developing cold feet? Experts blame China’s reluctance to invest more in Pakistan on the deteriorating security situation and persistent political instability, especially after the ouster of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. His government was toppled in April 2022, triggering massive civil unrest and protests against the powerful army. Watch: Pakistan: Lashkar-E-Tayyiba operative killed in Karachi × The second biggest concern for China is security. "Chinese believe that security of their personnel and assets is in jeopardy in Pakistan," James M. Dorsey, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, was quoted as saying by Nikkei Asia. Increasing terror attacks across Pakistan have only fueled such concerns. No economic sense Some experts also say that China no longer believes investments in the crises-hit country will yield any return. Pakistan’s economy continues to reel under a debt crisis, with the country struggling to pay back $1.2 billion in overdue payments. Muhammad Tayyab Safdar, assistant professor of global studies at the University of Virginia, says, “[The Chinese will] still make money, but with much angst, at least in the power sector." Also read: Catastrophic earthquake to strike Pakistan? Dutch scientist makes startling prediction According to Jeremy Garlick, an associate professor of international relations at Prague University of Economics and Business, “China does not believe anymore that it can get economic returns from CPEC." Pakistan still optimistic According to Pakistani officials interviewed by Nikkei Asia, the government is still optimistic that China will resume CPEC investments after elections are over in January next year. Another Pakistani analyst Qamar Cheema stressed that Pakistan, a country of 240 million, is too important to be ignored and that Beijing would step up investments after negotiations with the government with a fresh mandate. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China rejects Pakistan’s request to make fresh investments in CPEC: Report

Pakistan's ambitions of CPEC expansion appears to hit a roadblock. Reports suggest that there are major disagreements between China and Pakistan over the economic project that is worth billions of dollars.

Pak-China's disagreements on CPEC surface: China refuses expansion in key areas

Pakistan laid out the red carpet for visiting Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng who is on a three-day trip to India's neighbour to commemorate 10 years of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a project that New Delhi has often flagged as parts of it passes through India's Jammu and Kashmir under illegal Chinese and Pakistani occupation respectively.

The celebration will take place for the CPEC project despite the looming economic crisis that has gripped Pakistan due to increasing Chinese loans in the country.

During his Pakistan visit, Lifeng is scheduled to hold meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/economic-partnership-between-pakistan-and-china-stalled-report-585968">Economic partnership between Pakistan and China stalled: Report</a>

The China Pakistan Economic Corridor is a flagship project of China’s faltering Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

BRI is an ambitious international infrastructure investment programme launched by Beijing which aims to link Asia with Africa and Europe as a matter of revival of the ancient Silk Road. The project is facing roadblocks due to concerns related to China's territorial assertiveness and 'debt-trap' funding apparatus.

The effort, however, is pumped with billions of dollars in funding for infrastructure projects, including the construction of ports from Sri Lanka to West Africa, the paving of motorways from Papua New Guinea to Kenya, and the provision of power and telecoms infrastructure for people in Latin America and Southeast Asia.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Protests against CPEC continue in Gwadar, demand for Chinese to leave

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In 2019, Italy became the only major Western country and the only country from the G7 group of advanced economies to join the BRI. But over the weekend, Italy's defence minister said that joining China’s vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was an "atrocious" decision and the 21st century's Roman challenge is to leave the BRI without damaging ties with Beijing.

<h2>China-Pakistan ties and Lifeng's role</h2>

Reports in Pakistani media said that Lifeng has played a "prominent role" in China’s international economic relations and implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative.

He was "instrumental in the planning and execution of multiple CPEC projects in Pakistan" while serving as chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission from 2017 to 2023, the Foreign Office had stated.

Pakistanis had hoped that the CPEC would turn the economic fortunes of the country. The country's deepening economic troubles have been partially blamed on CPEC's economic non-feasibility.&nbsp;

The investment has only had debilitating impact on Pakistani economy amid Islamabad's fostering of terrorism.

"Security stands out as the core problem that hinders the realisation of Chinese goals," Azeem Khalid, assistant professor of international relations at COMSATS University Islamabad told AFP. He added, "This factor is the primary reason why CPEC has not reached its full functional potential yet."

Over the past many years, the CPEC projects have been attacked by militants, engineers have been abducted and protests have erupted from regionalists seeking independence from Islamabad.

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Pakistan laid out the red carpet for visiting Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng who is on a three-day trip to India's neighbour to commemorate 10 years of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a project that New Delhi has often flagged as parts of it passes through India's Jammu and Kashmir under illegal Chinese and Pakistani occupation respectively.

Pakistan laid out the red carpet for visiting Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng who is on a three-day trip to India's neighbour to commemorate 10 years of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a project that New Delhi has often flagged as parts of it passes through India's Jammu and Kashmir under illegal Chinese and Pakistani occupation respectively. The celebration will take place for the CPEC project despite the looming economic crisis that has gripped Pakistan due to increasing Chinese loans in the country. During his Pakistan visit, Lifeng is scheduled to hold meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi. Also read | Economic partnership between Pakistan and China stalled: Report The China Pakistan Economic Corridor is a flagship project of China’s faltering Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). BRI is an ambitious international infrastructure investment programme launched by Beijing which aims to link Asia with Africa and Europe as a matter of revival of the ancient Silk Road. The project is facing roadblocks due to concerns related to China's territorial assertiveness and 'debt-trap' funding apparatus. The effort, however, is pumped with billions of dollars in funding for infrastructure projects, including the construction of ports from Sri Lanka to West Africa, the paving of motorways from Papua New Guinea to Kenya, and the provision of power and telecoms infrastructure for people in Latin America and Southeast Asia. Also watch | Pakistan: Protests against CPEC continue in Gwadar, demand for Chinese to leave × In 2019, Italy became the only major Western country and the only country from the G7 group of advanced economies to join the BRI. But over the weekend, Italy's defence minister said that joining China’s vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was an "atrocious" decision and the 21st century's Roman challenge is to leave the BRI without damaging ties with Beijing. China-Pakistan ties and Lifeng's role Reports in Pakistani media said that Lifeng has played a "prominent role" in China’s international economic relations and implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative. He was "instrumental in the planning and execution of multiple CPEC projects in Pakistan" while serving as chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission from 2017 to 2023, the Foreign Office had stated. Pakistanis had hoped that the CPEC would turn the economic fortunes of the country. The country's deepening economic troubles have been partially blamed on CPEC's economic non-feasibility. The investment has only had debilitating impact on Pakistani economy amid Islamabad's fostering of terrorism. "Security stands out as the core problem that hinders the realisation of Chinese goals," Azeem Khalid, assistant professor of international relations at COMSATS University Islamabad told AFP. He added, "This factor is the primary reason why CPEC has not reached its full functional potential yet." Over the past many years, the CPEC projects have been attacked by militants, engineers have been abducted and protests have erupted from regionalists seeking independence from Islamabad. 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.

Chinese vice premier gets red carpet welcome in Pakistan to 'celebrate' troubled BRI project

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng arrived in the Pakistan capital, Islamabad on Sunday (July 30), as the countries mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a cornerstone of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).&nbsp;

<h2>Chinese official’s visit to Pakistan</h2>

During his three-day visit from July 30 to August 1, Vice Premier He, who is also a member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi.

He was received by the Pakistan Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah at the airport, as well as the officials from the Chinese embassy and Islamabad’s ministry of foreign affairs, according to local media reports.&nbsp;

In a statement released ahead of the Chinese vice premier’s arrival on Saturday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) said that his visit to Islamabad at the federal government’s invitation played a “prominent role” in China’s international economic relations and implementation of the BRI.&nbsp; 
 
It added that as the chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission from 2017 to 2023, he was “instrumental in the planning and execution of multiple CPEC projects in Pakistan”. He’s visit also reflects the importance attached by Pakistan and China to further deepen their “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” said the Pakistan FO.&nbsp;

<h2>Bomb blast in Pakistan kills at least 44</h2>

The Chinese official’s visit&nbsp; began on the day that saw a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosion-in-pakistan-claims-the-lives-of-at-least-43-620814">deadly bomb blast</a> at a Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) convention in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district which has led to the death of at least 44 people and wounded over 200 others.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the deadly bomb blast, but as per local media reports, the local chapter of the Islamic State (IS) group has carried out attacks against JUI-F in the recent past.

<h2>About CPEC</h2>

Since its initiation in 2013, CPEC has seen $25.4 billion invested into massive transport, energy and infrastructure projects across Pakistan, as per media reports.&nbsp;

However, the countries that share a 596-kilometre border near the Siachen Glacier, have recently witnessed some strain due to the numerous hurdles in recent years which also include disruption of CPEC projects.&nbsp;

<h2>Security concerns</h2>

CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Pakistan’s Balochistan with China’s Xinjiang province, is opposed by India as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Additionally, it has also been opposed by the locals who have reportedly claimed that the influx of investment does not benefit them. &nbsp;

Over the years, Baloch separatists have claimed multiple attacks on CPEC projects which has prompted Pakistan to deploy thousands of security personnel to counter threats against Chinese interests.&nbsp;

“Security stands out as the core problem that hinders the realisation of Chinese goals,” Azeem Khalid, assistant professor of international relations at COMSATS University Islamabad told AFP.

He added, “This factor is the primary reason why CPEC has not reached its full functional potential yet.”

Previous attacks on Chinese workers and officials have prompted Pakistan to ramp up security measures this time around. Islamabad also ordered a two-day public holiday to keep people off the streets. Ahead of He’s visit, banners celebrating the anniversary and flags of both countries were put up across Pakistan’s capital.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng arrived in the Pakistan capital, Islamabad on Sunday (July 30), as the countries mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a cornerstone of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng arrived in the Pakistan capital, Islamabad on Sunday (July 30), as the countries mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a cornerstone of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Chinese official’s visit to Pakistan During his three-day visit from July 30 to August 1, Vice Premier He, who is also a member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi. He was received by the Pakistan Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah at the airport, as well as the officials from the Chinese embassy and Islamabad’s ministry of foreign affairs, according to local media reports. In a statement released ahead of the Chinese vice premier’s arrival on Saturday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) said that his visit to Islamabad at the federal government’s invitation played a “prominent role” in China’s international economic relations and implementation of the BRI. It added that as the chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission from 2017 to 2023, he was “instrumental in the planning and execution of multiple CPEC projects in Pakistan”. He’s visit also reflects the importance attached by Pakistan and China to further deepen their “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” said the Pakistan FO. Bomb blast in Pakistan kills at least 44 The Chinese official’s visit began on the day that saw a deadly bomb blast at a Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) convention in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district which has led to the death of at least 44 people and wounded over 200 others. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the deadly bomb blast, but as per local media reports, the local chapter of the Islamic State (IS) group has carried out attacks against JUI-F in the recent past. About CPEC Since its initiation in 2013, CPEC has seen $25.4 billion invested into massive transport, energy and infrastructure projects across Pakistan, as per media reports. However, the countries that share a 596-kilometre border near the Siachen Glacier, have recently witnessed some strain due to the numerous hurdles in recent years which also include disruption of CPEC projects. Security concerns CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Pakistan’s Balochistan with China’s Xinjiang province, is opposed by India as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Additionally, it has also been opposed by the locals who have reportedly claimed that the influx of investment does not benefit them. Over the years, Baloch separatists have claimed multiple attacks on CPEC projects which has prompted Pakistan to deploy thousands of security personnel to counter threats against Chinese interests. “Security stands out as the core problem that hinders the realisation of Chinese goals,” Azeem Khalid, assistant professor of international relations at COMSATS University Islamabad told AFP. He added, “This factor is the primary reason why CPEC has not reached its full functional potential yet.” Previous attacks on Chinese workers and officials have prompted Pakistan to ramp up security measures this time around. Islamabad also ordered a two-day public holiday to keep people off the streets. Ahead of He’s visit, banners celebrating the anniversary and flags of both countries were put up across Pakistan’s capital. (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.

Pakistan: Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng arrives in Islamabad to celebrate 10 years of CPEC

Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist Muhammad Tariq Rafiq, believed to be responsible for the planning and execution of attacks against the Chinese installations in Pakistan and Afghanistan, has been killed, local media reports stated.

It is being reported that Rafiq, also known as Button Kharab, was killed near Paich Dara, Kunar Province, Afghanistan.

Details surrounding how he was taken down or who was responsible for his killing are still unclear.

“He has gone out of communication since yesterday,” a senior Tehrik-e-Taliban Commander (TTP) told The Khorasan Diary, a news website run by independent journalists, on Tuesday.

“We can only confirm his death if we see the body,” another TTP commander considered a close aide of Tariq was quoted as saying.

The same information was later confirmed by a Pakistani official, but he did not give further details, The Khorasan Diary reported.

The outlet confirmed the death stating that it has access to a video of Tariq Button Kharab with gunshot wounds.

<h2>Targeted Chinese workers&nbsp;</h2>

Tariq, who is a member of TTP in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, is the main brains behind the suicide bombing that killed nine&nbsp;Chinese workers in northern Pakistan on July 14, 2021.

These Chinese workers were headed for a hydropower project in Dasu Dam, Kohistan.

<h2>Pakistan: Chinese national arrested on blasphemy charges</h2>

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According to reports, he was also responsible for escorting and planning attacks in collusion with Balochistan Liberation Army, particularly the female suicide bombing targeting the Chinese language Centre in Karachi, on April 26, 2022.

In recent years, Chinese activities in Pakistan have faced major pushback from separatists and other militants, including several deadly attacks.

There have been increased attacks on Chinese workers, who have been sent to Pakistan to complete infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is a sub-sect of the wider Belt and Road initiative.

Beijing has invested more than $65 billion in infrastructure projects in Pakistan.

China has repeatedly urged its “all-weather ally” to do more to protect its interests.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist Muhammad Tariq Rafiq, believed to be responsible for the planning and execution of attacks against the Chinese installations in Pakistan and Afghanistan, has been killed, local media reports stated.

Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist Muhammad Tariq Rafiq, believed to be responsible for the planning and execution of attacks against the Chinese installations in Pakistan and Afghanistan, has been killed, local media reports stated. It is being reported that Rafiq, also known as Button Kharab, was killed near Paich Dara, Kunar Province, Afghanistan. Details surrounding how he was taken down or who was responsible for his killing are still unclear. “He has gone out of communication since yesterday,” a senior Tehrik-e-Taliban Commander (TTP) told The Khorasan Diary, a news website run by independent journalists, on Tuesday. “We can only confirm his death if we see the body,” another TTP commander considered a close aide of Tariq was quoted as saying. The same information was later confirmed by a Pakistani official, but he did not give further details, The Khorasan Diary reported. The outlet confirmed the death stating that it has access to a video of Tariq Button Kharab with gunshot wounds. Targeted Chinese workers Tariq, who is a member of TTP in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, is the main brains behind the suicide bombing that killed nine Chinese workers in northern Pakistan on July 14, 2021. These Chinese workers were headed for a hydropower project in Dasu Dam, Kohistan. Pakistan: Chinese national arrested on blasphemy charges According to reports, he was also responsible for escorting and planning attacks in collusion with Balochistan Liberation Army, particularly the female suicide bombing targeting the Chinese language Centre in Karachi, on April 26, 2022. In recent years, Chinese activities in Pakistan have faced major pushback from separatists and other militants, including several deadly attacks. There have been increased attacks on Chinese workers, who have been sent to Pakistan to complete infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is a sub-sect of the wider Belt and Road initiative. Beijing has invested more than $65 billion in infrastructure projects in Pakistan. China has repeatedly urged its “all-weather ally” to do more to protect its interests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

TTP terrorist responsible for attacks on Chinese in Pakistan killed: Report

Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC.

On the other hand, during the talks, Tehran accused Islamabad of not doing enough to prevent terrorists from conducting cross-border terrorism into Iran, as per Voice of America (VOA) reports as cited by ANI.

Baloch anarchists oppose CPEC, asserting that it is aiding Pakistan's efforts to deprive the local population of the region's natural resources.

"The delegations held detailed discussions on the regional security situation, particularly the threat of terrorism faced by the region," said a post-meeting statement in Islamabad, which shared no further details, Voice of America (VOA) reported.

The Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministries said that the three nations had decided to institutionalise and hold the meeting regularly, as per VOA reports,&nbsp;

Senior Chinese, Pakistani and Iranian counterterrorism officials, each from their respective foreign ministries, led their teams at Wednesday's dialogue.

As per analysts, the main agenda of the discussion was Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province which is at the paramountcy of a multibillion-dollar Chinese-funded programme, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reported VOA.

"The establishment of a trilateral security mechanism between China, Pakistan and Iran reflects their shared concerns regarding security in Balochistan," observed Baqir Sajjad, a Pakistan fellow at the Wilson Center in Washington.&nbsp;

He said that stability in Balochistan was extremely important in the successful implementation of CPEC projects, reported VOA.

"Collaboration among these countries can potentially contribute to improved regional security and counter the activities of insurgents who find refuge in Iran," he said.

Balochistan, which is a Pakistani province bordering Iran, for the longest time has experienced a low-level insurgency, led by outlawed ethnic Baloch groups.

Islamabad asserts that the insurgents use shelters on Iranian soil to stage cross-border attacks in their bid to debase CPEC. The Iranian authorities deny the presence of Baloch extremists on their soil, as per VOA reports.

CPEC has built road networks and power plants across Pakistan and to the Arabian Sea deep-water Gwadar port in Balochistan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC.

Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC. On the other hand, during the talks, Tehran accused Islamabad of not doing enough to prevent terrorists from conducting cross-border terrorism into Iran, as per Voice of America (VOA) reports as cited by ANI. Baloch anarchists oppose CPEC, asserting that it is aiding Pakistan's efforts to deprive the local population of the region's natural resources. "The delegations held detailed discussions on the regional security situation, particularly the threat of terrorism faced by the region," said a post-meeting statement in Islamabad, which shared no further details, Voice of America (VOA) reported. The Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministries said that the three nations had decided to institutionalise and hold the meeting regularly, as per VOA reports, Senior Chinese, Pakistani and Iranian counterterrorism officials, each from their respective foreign ministries, led their teams at Wednesday's dialogue. As per analysts, the main agenda of the discussion was Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province which is at the paramountcy of a multibillion-dollar Chinese-funded programme, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reported VOA. "The establishment of a trilateral security mechanism between China, Pakistan and Iran reflects their shared concerns regarding security in Balochistan," observed Baqir Sajjad, a Pakistan fellow at the Wilson Center in Washington. He said that stability in Balochistan was extremely important in the successful implementation of CPEC projects, reported VOA. "Collaboration among these countries can potentially contribute to improved regional security and counter the activities of insurgents who find refuge in Iran," he said. Balochistan, which is a Pakistani province bordering Iran, for the longest time has experienced a low-level insurgency, led by outlawed ethnic Baloch groups. Islamabad asserts that the insurgents use shelters on Iranian soil to stage cross-border attacks in their bid to debase CPEC. The Iranian authorities deny the presence of Baloch extremists on their soil, as per VOA reports. CPEC has built road networks and power plants across Pakistan and to the Arabian Sea deep-water Gwadar port in Balochistan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan accuses Iran of cross-border attacks at trilateral counterterrorism conference in Beijing

Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.

Not only that, but the meeting also found mention of the Kashmir issue, with Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari appreciating China’s “principled and just stance” well as its “firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity”, reports Dawn newspaper.

Bilawal met his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang in Islamabad. Both ministers concluded their Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) meeting in India’s southern Goa state on Friday.

“Pakistan and China have reiterated their abiding commitment to the high-quality development of&nbsp;China Pakistan Economic Corridor&nbsp;(CPEC) project,” state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

Earlier in the day, Bilawal while addressing a delegation-level meeting with China, said, “We deeply appreciate China’s firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and national development as well as China’s principled and just stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.”

It comes a day after India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar issued stern remarks on the CPEC project at a press conference after the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meeting.

<h2>SCO meet | Jaishankar: Victims of terrorism do not sit with perpetrators of terrorism</h2>

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“On the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, I think it was made very clear, not once but twice in the SCO meeting, that connectivity is good for progress, but connectivity cannot violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

India has consistently raised its objections to the CPEC connectivity project that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

India says that CPEC will give China access to the Arabian Sea through the Gwadar port in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

Moreover, it has previously criticised statements by Pakistani and Chinese leaders on the Kashmir issue, saying that New Delhi&nbsp;rejected their unwarranted references to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

During the meeting in Islamabad, Bilawal termed the Pakistan-China friendship as “irreversible”, “a historic reality”, and a “consensus choice of the two nations”. He added: “Pakistan remains against bloc politics or great power competition of any kind.”

“We are committed to remaining engaged with China to promote south-south cooperation, especially in light of emerging global concerns like human-induced climate change,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.

Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project. Not only that, but the meeting also found mention of the Kashmir issue, with Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari appreciating China’s “principled and just stance” well as its “firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity”, reports Dawn newspaper. Bilawal met his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang in Islamabad. Both ministers concluded their Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) meeting in India’s southern Goa state on Friday. “Pakistan and China have reiterated their abiding commitment to the high-quality development of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project,” state-run Radio Pakistan reported. Earlier in the day, Bilawal while addressing a delegation-level meeting with China, said, “We deeply appreciate China’s firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and national development as well as China’s principled and just stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.” It comes a day after India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar issued stern remarks on the CPEC project at a press conference after the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meeting. SCO meet | Jaishankar: Victims of terrorism do not sit with perpetrators of terrorism “On the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, I think it was made very clear, not once but twice in the SCO meeting, that connectivity is good for progress, but connectivity cannot violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity.” India has consistently raised its objections to the CPEC connectivity project that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). India says that CPEC will give China access to the Arabian Sea through the Gwadar port in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. Moreover, it has previously criticised statements by Pakistani and Chinese leaders on the Kashmir issue, saying that New Delhi rejected their unwarranted references to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. During the meeting in Islamabad, Bilawal termed the Pakistan-China friendship as “irreversible”, “a historic reality”, and a “consensus choice of the two nations”. He added: “Pakistan remains against bloc politics or great power competition of any kind.” “We are committed to remaining engaged with China to promote south-south cooperation, especially in light of emerging global concerns like human-induced climate change,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan, China again rake up Kashmir, reaffirm commitment to CPEC after India’s jibe

From CPEC to Sri Lanka's Bri-projects to investments in Bangladesh, we look at China's debt-trap diplomacy in the Indian subcontinent. Can South Asian nations slow down their debt dependence on china? Watch this report.

China's economic dominance waning? | Inside South Asia

China has been growing its activities and influence using the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project in India’s extended neighbourhood with the sole purpose of reducing New Delhi’s influence in the Indian Ocean Region, papers presented at key security meet in the national capital argued.

Apart from BRI, China has been using the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan, providing easy loans to several Southeast and South Asian nations in the name of developmental works, while effectively distracting India with hot borders and Line of Actual Control (LAC), the papers presented by the Indian Police Service officers said.

"All this is being done with the aim to keep India constrained and occupied in facing the resultant challenges, force resolution of bilateral issues on its own terms, modulate India's growth story, leaving it (China) free to achieve its aim of becoming not only Asia's pre-eminent power, but a global superpower," the papers titled "Chinese influence in the neighbourhood and implications for India" said.

These papers were submitted as part of a three-day annual conference attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and about 350 top police officers of the country.

According to one of the papers, China has become far more attentive to its South Asian periphery, moving beyond commercial and development engagements to more far-reaching political and security ones.

And in response, many of India’s neighbouring countries have called China as a key development partner either as a funder or in providing technological and logistical support, it said.

“It is the biggest trading partner in goods for Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, and the second-largest for Nepal and the Maldives,” it said.

"However, the economic element is increasingly intertwined with political, government, and people-to-people aspects of these relationships," it added.

<h2>Covid helped China</h2>

The onset of Covid pandemic helped China in opening up several new avenues in engaging with these countries such as providing medical equipment, biomedical expertise, and capital for coronavirus-related needs, it said.

“These developments demonstrate that China's presence in Southeast and South Asia is no longer predominantly economic but involves a greater, multidimensional effort to enhance its posture and further its long-term strategic interests in the region,” the paper said.

The paper says that China is hell-bent on achieving regional power status in the Indian Ocean Region, and “to do so, Beijing wants to contain India which is the only threat before China in this region."

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China has been growing its activities and influence using the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project in India’s extended neighbourhood with the sole purpose of reducing New Delhi’s influence in the Indian Ocean Region, papers presented at key security meet in the national capital argued.

China has been growing its activities and influence using the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project in India’s extended neighbourhood with the sole purpose of reducing New Delhi’s influence in the Indian Ocean Region, papers presented at key security meet in the national capital argued. Apart from BRI, China has been using the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan, providing easy loans to several Southeast and South Asian nations in the name of developmental works, while effectively distracting India with hot borders and Line of Actual Control (LAC), the papers presented by the Indian Police Service officers said. "All this is being done with the aim to keep India constrained and occupied in facing the resultant challenges, force resolution of bilateral issues on its own terms, modulate India's growth story, leaving it (China) free to achieve its aim of becoming not only Asia's pre-eminent power, but a global superpower," the papers titled "Chinese influence in the neighbourhood and implications for India" said. These papers were submitted as part of a three-day annual conference attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and about 350 top police officers of the country. According to one of the papers, China has become far more attentive to its South Asian periphery, moving beyond commercial and development engagements to more far-reaching political and security ones. And in response, many of India’s neighbouring countries have called China as a key development partner either as a funder or in providing technological and logistical support, it said. “It is the biggest trading partner in goods for Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, and the second-largest for Nepal and the Maldives,” it said. "However, the economic element is increasingly intertwined with political, government, and people-to-people aspects of these relationships," it added. Covid helped China The onset of Covid pandemic helped China in opening up several new avenues in engaging with these countries such as providing medical equipment, biomedical expertise, and capital for coronavirus-related needs, it said. “These developments demonstrate that China's presence in Southeast and South Asia is no longer predominantly economic but involves a greater, multidimensional effort to enhance its posture and further its long-term strategic interests in the region,” the paper said. The paper says that China is hell-bent on achieving regional power status in the Indian Ocean Region, and “to do so, Beijing wants to contain India which is the only threat before China in this region." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China using cheap loans tactic to reduce India’s influence in Indian Ocean Region, say research papers

Days after Islamabad was rocked by a suicide bombing episode, Pakistan-administered Balochistan went through a bloody weekend in which Pakistani security personnel as well as civilians lost their lives. Balochistan is gripped by protests against the projects being developed under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), one of Beijing's key streams to realise its Belt and Road Initiative.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-protests-against-cpec-continue-in-gwadar-demand-for-chinese-to-leave-546861">Pakistan: Protests against CPEC continue in Gwadar, demand for Chinese to leave</a>

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A Pakistani policeman was shot dead after protests turned violent in the Gwadar region, Dawn reported.&nbsp;

Police fired shots at protestors in Turbat and Chaman areas. The resultant clash reportedly led to the deaths of at least five security personnel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-political-outfit-shoots-ultimatum-at-chinese-citizens-in-gwadar-to-leave-545397">Go away: Pakistani political outfit issues ultimatum to Chinese citizens in Gwadar</a>

On Christmas, the birthday of Mohammed Ali Jinnah, regarded as Pakistan's founder, the violence escalated and six more security personnel were killed, Dawn reported. The incident reportedly occurred in Kohlu's Kahan area, which took the lives of five Pakistani troops&nbsp;including a captain. Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

TTP-BLA working together?

Reports in Pakistani media have inconclusively claimed that Balochistan Liberation Army and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan may be working together. The reports are based on the similar natures of attacks that the two groups have executed against Pakistani security personnel in recent weeks. "If there is evidence that the Baloch separatists are finding refuge in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, this needs to be taken up with Kabul’s rulers," an editorial in Dawn said.&nbsp;

'Haq Do Tehreek' supporters have been protesting for nearly two months against the projects that have led to deep-sea trawling. Balochistan's Gwadar has been touted as the 'heart of CPEC' in Pakistan.

Many Pakistani political economists believe that CPEC would reduce Pakistan to 'a vassal state'. Leading Pakistani political economist S. Akbar Zaidi in past has described it as 'a Chinese project, for Chinese interests, and Pakistan just happens to be part of geographical terrain'.

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Days after Islamabad was rocked by a suicide bombing episode, Pakistan-administered Balochistan went through a bloody weekend in which Pakistani security personnel as well as civilians lost their lives.

Days after Islamabad was rocked by a suicide bombing episode, Pakistan-administered Balochistan went through a bloody weekend in which Pakistani security personnel as well as civilians lost their lives. Balochistan is gripped by protests against the projects being developed under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), one of Beijing's key streams to realise its Belt and Road Initiative. WATCH | Pakistan: Protests against CPEC continue in Gwadar, demand for Chinese to leave × A Pakistani policeman was shot dead after protests turned violent in the Gwadar region, Dawn reported. Police fired shots at protestors in Turbat and Chaman areas. The resultant clash reportedly led to the deaths of at least five security personnel. ALSO READ | Go away: Pakistani political outfit issues ultimatum to Chinese citizens in Gwadar On Christmas, the birthday of Mohammed Ali Jinnah, regarded as Pakistan's founder, the violence escalated and six more security personnel were killed, Dawn reported. The incident reportedly occurred in Kohlu's Kahan area, which took the lives of five Pakistani troops including a captain. Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack. TTP-BLA working together? Reports in Pakistani media have inconclusively claimed that Balochistan Liberation Army and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan may be working together. The reports are based on the similar natures of attacks that the two groups have executed against Pakistani security personnel in recent weeks. "If there is evidence that the Baloch separatists are finding refuge in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, this needs to be taken up with Kabul’s rulers," an editorial in Dawn said. 'Haq Do Tehreek' supporters have been protesting for nearly two months against the projects that have led to deep-sea trawling. Balochistan's Gwadar has been touted as the 'heart of CPEC' in Pakistan. Many Pakistani political economists believe that CPEC would reduce Pakistan to 'a vassal state'. Leading Pakistani political economist S. Akbar Zaidi in past has described it as 'a Chinese project, for Chinese interests, and Pakistan just happens to be part of geographical terrain'. 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.

Balochistan's anti-CPEC protests intensify amid attacks on Pakistani troops

For the past two months, protesters in Pakistan have blocked the Gwadar East Bay Expressway in Balochistan, an area crucial to Pakistan-China relations.

Pakistan: Protests against CPEC continue in Gwadar, demand for Chinese to leave

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed hope that China and Pakistan will cooperate to create the conditions for the early construction of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) and Karachi Circular Railway projects, The Hong Kong Post reported citing state media.&nbsp;

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is the primary factor influencing China's "easy-going" relations with Pakistan (CPEC).&nbsp;

Due to its connection to the Belt and Road Initiative, the CPEC project is immensely important to Beijing.

The Hong Kong Post reported Xi Jinping intends to make "CPEC an exemplar of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation."&nbsp;

In order to congratulate Chinese President Xi Jinping on winning a third term at the 20th Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif travelled to Beijing.&nbsp;

Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister of Pakistan, was required to update Xi Jinping on the CPEC project's status during his visit to China.&nbsp;

According to a state media source published by The Hong Kong Post, Xi deemed it "important" to expedite the building of Gwadar Port's auxiliary infrastructure in order to highlight the port's role in promoting interconnected development in the area.

China, according to Xi Jinping, would keep working to support Pakistan in its efforts to improve its financial circumstances.&nbsp;

Notably, up until Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan was a cricketer-turned-politician, China was happy with the project's progress.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-pristine-indonesian-islands-up-for-auction-536721">Over 100 pristine Indonesian islands up for auction</a>

The government, which is governed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has repeatedly criticised the CPEC project while expressing no overt interest in it.&nbsp;

Beijing anticipates using its clout to influence events along the land and water "silk routes" connecting China and Europe.&nbsp;

The land route for the project is via the Himalayan region near the Chinese border, while the sea route travels across the Indian Ocean region.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed hope that China and Pakistan will cooperate to create the conditions for the early construction of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) and Karachi Circular Railway projects, The Hong Kong Post reported citing state media.

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed hope that China and Pakistan will cooperate to create the conditions for the early construction of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) and Karachi Circular Railway projects, The Hong Kong Post reported citing state media. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is the primary factor influencing China's "easy-going" relations with Pakistan (CPEC). Due to its connection to the Belt and Road Initiative, the CPEC project is immensely important to Beijing. The Hong Kong Post reported Xi Jinping intends to make "CPEC an exemplar of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation." In order to congratulate Chinese President Xi Jinping on winning a third term at the 20th Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif travelled to Beijing. Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister of Pakistan, was required to update Xi Jinping on the CPEC project's status during his visit to China. According to a state media source published by The Hong Kong Post, Xi deemed it "important" to expedite the building of Gwadar Port's auxiliary infrastructure in order to highlight the port's role in promoting interconnected development in the area. China, according to Xi Jinping, would keep working to support Pakistan in its efforts to improve its financial circumstances. Notably, up until Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan was a cricketer-turned-politician, China was happy with the project's progress. Also Read: Over 100 pristine Indonesian islands up for auction The government, which is governed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has repeatedly criticised the CPEC project while expressing no overt interest in it. Beijing anticipates using its clout to influence events along the land and water "silk routes" connecting China and Europe. The land route for the project is via the Himalayan region near the Chinese border, while the sea route travels across the Indian Ocean region. (with inputs from agencies)

China seeks early completion of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Report

To provide safety to Chinese nationals working on the CPEC projects in Pakistan, both countries have agreed to provide bullet-proof vehicles for all outdoor movement.&nbsp;

The $60 billion project, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) connects Kashgar in the Xinjiang Uygur region of northwest China with Pakistan's Gwadar port on the Arabian sea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/reports-cash-crunched-pakistan-to-get-an-additional-usd-13-billion-from-china-and-saudi-arabia-531451">Also read |&nbsp;Reports: Cash-crunched Pakistan to get an additional $13 billion from China and Saudi Arabia</a>

According to the Express Tribune, both Pakistan and China have also agreed to increase the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in Pakistan and investigators citing the draft minutes of the 11th Joint Cooperation Committee.&nbsp;

This is one of Chinese President Xi Jinping's favourite projects but progress on this was a bit difficult due to security concerns of the Chinese workers. Addressing&nbsp;the ties between the countries, Xi last week expressed his deep concern for Chinese nationals working on the CPEC project and asked for a safe and reliable environment for them.&nbsp;

The draft minutes cited that China has agreed to donate security-related gear to help Pakistan's agencies to build the development. The Asian country has pledged all support for Pakistan, including providing private security guards and staff for enforcement agencies.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-jinping-meets-paks-shehbaz-sharif-both-agree-to-revitalise-cpec-projects-530517">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;China’s Xi Jinping meets Pak’s Shehbaz Sharif, both agree to revitalise CPEC projects</a>

The National Forensic Science Agency (NSFA) would be constructed in order to hasten the investigation into crimes involving Chinese nationals. According to some insiders, China has also requested Pakistan to allow its security officers to safeguard Chinese nationals due to Chinese workers being frequently targeted. &nbsp;For this, both parties agreed&nbsp;on the establishment of a Joint Technical Expert Working Group (JTEWG) for security operations amid&nbsp;rising terrorism attacks.

However, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment in maintaining the tax and tariff policies staff, the draft revealed that the country has not been able to pay its taxes, while China remains stance on its demand asking Pakistan to timely pay its debt.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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To provide safety to Chinese nationals working on the CPEC projects in Pakistan, both countries have agreed to provide bullet-proof vehicles for all outdoor movement.

To provide safety to Chinese nationals working on the CPEC projects in Pakistan, both countries have agreed to provide bullet-proof vehicles for all outdoor movement. The $60 billion project, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) connects Kashgar in the Xinjiang Uygur region of northwest China with Pakistan's Gwadar port on the Arabian sea. Also read | Reports: Cash-crunched Pakistan to get an additional $13 billion from China and Saudi Arabia According to the Express Tribune, both Pakistan and China have also agreed to increase the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in Pakistan and investigators citing the draft minutes of the 11th Joint Cooperation Committee. This is one of Chinese President Xi Jinping's favourite projects but progress on this was a bit difficult due to security concerns of the Chinese workers. Addressing the ties between the countries, Xi last week expressed his deep concern for Chinese nationals working on the CPEC project and asked for a safe and reliable environment for them. The draft minutes cited that China has agreed to donate security-related gear to help Pakistan's agencies to build the development. The Asian country has pledged all support for Pakistan, including providing private security guards and staff for enforcement agencies. Also read | China’s Xi Jinping meets Pak’s Shehbaz Sharif, both agree to revitalise CPEC projects The National Forensic Science Agency (NSFA) would be constructed in order to hasten the investigation into crimes involving Chinese nationals. According to some insiders, China has also requested Pakistan to allow its security officers to safeguard Chinese nationals due to Chinese workers being frequently targeted. For this, both parties agreed on the establishment of a Joint Technical Expert Working Group (JTEWG) for security operations amid rising terrorism attacks. However, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment in maintaining the tax and tariff policies staff, the draft revealed that the country has not been able to pay its taxes, while China remains stance on its demand asking Pakistan to timely pay its debt. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid security concerns, Chinese officials in Pakistan to get bullet-proof vehicles, says report 

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media.

This is Sharif’s first official visit to China after taking charge earlier this year, and so is the case of Xi after recently concluding its twice-a-decade party congress where he was elected unopposed for third-term.

Both leaders met at the People’s Great Hall of China and discussed moving forward more with the construction of their economic corridor and accelerating the construction of infrastructure for the Gwadar Sea Port, state media reported.

Their conversation ranged on broad-based economic cooperation and investment, besides exchanging views on regional and global developments.

Shehbaz and Xi also discussed the need to further promote the 'all-weather strategic cooperation partnership' between the two nations.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif visits China amid domestic, global turmoil

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According to Pakistani media, Sharif, who is on a two-day visit to China, was welcomed with a red carpet and a guard of honour by the Chinese forces.

Notably, ahead of his visit, Sharif hurriedly cleared $12 billion worth of three major projects were cleared under the CPEC, reports Dawn newspaper.

CPEC is the flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—a pet project of Xi—which is a collection of infrastructure projects that are under construction throughout Pakistan beginning in 2013.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/was-unaware-of-any-undertaking-replies-imran-khan-in-a-sc-contempt-case-529995" hreflang="en">'Was unaware of any undertaking', replies Imran Khan in a contempt case</a>

Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/isi-chief-makes-surprise-appearance-slams-imran-khan-for-maligning-military-and-iss-529077" hreflang="en">ISI chief makes surprise appearance, slams Imran Khan for 'maligning' military</a>

India has repeatedly registered its protests over CPEC, saying that it is in violation of its sovereignty as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media. This is Sharif’s first official visit to China after taking charge earlier this year, and so is the case of Xi after recently concluding its twice-a-decade party congress where he was elected unopposed for third-term. Both leaders met at the People’s Great Hall of China and discussed moving forward more with the construction of their economic corridor and accelerating the construction of infrastructure for the Gwadar Sea Port, state media reported. Their conversation ranged on broad-based economic cooperation and investment, besides exchanging views on regional and global developments. Shehbaz and Xi also discussed the need to further promote the 'all-weather strategic cooperation partnership' between the two nations. Watch | WION Dispatch: Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif visits China amid domestic, global turmoil According to Pakistani media, Sharif, who is on a two-day visit to China, was welcomed with a red carpet and a guard of honour by the Chinese forces. Notably, ahead of his visit, Sharif hurriedly cleared $12 billion worth of three major projects were cleared under the CPEC, reports Dawn newspaper. CPEC is the flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—a pet project of Xi—which is a collection of infrastructure projects that are under construction throughout Pakistan beginning in 2013. Also read | 'Was unaware of any undertaking', replies Imran Khan in a contempt case Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020. Also read | ISI chief makes surprise appearance, slams Imran Khan for 'maligning' military India has repeatedly registered its protests over CPEC, saying that it is in violation of its sovereignty as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China’s Xi Jinping meets Pak’s Shehbaz Sharif, both agree to revitalise CPEC projects

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, alongside a high-level delegation, will be traveling to China next week to meet President Xi Jinping. The visit announcement comes days after Xi secured a third term for himself as the party general secretary after the end of the 20th Communist Party of China (CPC) Congress.&nbsp;

The visit was confirmed by Pakistan's foreign ministry which released a statement and said it was Premier&nbsp;Li Keqiang that extended the invitation. Foreign Minister&nbsp;Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will also be travelling with Sharif.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will visit China on 1-2 November at the head of a high-level delegation, including Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. The Prime Minister is undertaking the visit at the invitation of H.E. Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China," read the statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-with-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-ministers-hina-rabbani-khar-maryyium-aurangzeb-519126">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Exclusive with Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif &amp; ministers Hina Rabbani Khar &amp; Maryyium Aurangzeb</a>

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The visit comes in the backdrop of China and Pakistan agreeing&nbsp;to start three new corridors in November, in addition to the multiple billion dollars China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), to strengthen bilateral ties, according to multiple reports.

It is expected that a formal launch will be announced during the trip.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-china-to-launch-three-new-cpec-like-corridor-projects-report-527847">Read more:&nbsp;Pakistan, China to launch three new CPEC-like corridor projects: Report</a>

"The visit is also expected to advance the wide-ranging bilateral cooperation agenda with the conclusion of a number of MoUs/Agreements in diverse areas, and consolidate the momentum of CPEC cooperation in the wake of the 11th meeting of the CPEC Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) on 27th October 2022," read the statement further.&nbsp;

As reported by WION,&nbsp;the CPEC is a multi-billion dollar development project, with a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-requests-china-to-roll-over-its-usd-63-billion-debt-528031">Read more: Pakistan requests China to roll over its USD 6.3 billion debt</a>

Notably, this will be Sharif's first visit to China since assuming the chair earlier this year. Previously Sharif and Xi met each other in Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the SCO summit last month.&nbsp;Sharif will also become one of the first leaders to visit China after the CPC Congress.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, alongside a high-level delegation, will be traveling to China next week to meet President Xi Jinping. The visit announcement comes days after Xi secured a third term for himself as the party general secretary after the end of the 20th Communist Party of China (CPC) Congress.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, alongside a high-level delegation, will be traveling to China next week to meet President Xi Jinping. The visit announcement comes days after Xi secured a third term for himself as the party general secretary after the end of the 20th Communist Party of China (CPC) Congress. The visit was confirmed by Pakistan's foreign ministry which released a statement and said it was Premier Li Keqiang that extended the invitation. Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will also be travelling with Sharif. "Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will visit China on 1-2 November at the head of a high-level delegation, including Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. The Prime Minister is undertaking the visit at the invitation of H.E. Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China," read the statement. WATCH | WION Exclusive with Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif & ministers Hina Rabbani Khar & Maryyium Aurangzeb × The visit comes in the backdrop of China and Pakistan agreeing to start three new corridors in November, in addition to the multiple billion dollars China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), to strengthen bilateral ties, according to multiple reports. It is expected that a formal launch will be announced during the trip. Read more: Pakistan, China to launch three new CPEC-like corridor projects: Report "The visit is also expected to advance the wide-ranging bilateral cooperation agenda with the conclusion of a number of MoUs/Agreements in diverse areas, and consolidate the momentum of CPEC cooperation in the wake of the 11th meeting of the CPEC Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) on 27th October 2022," read the statement further. As reported by WION, the CPEC is a multi-billion dollar development project, with a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. Read more: Pakistan requests China to roll over its USD 6.3 billion debt Notably, this will be Sharif's first visit to China since assuming the chair earlier this year. Previously Sharif and Xi met each other in Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the SCO summit last month. Sharif will also become one of the first leaders to visit China after the CPC Congress. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan PM to visit China for the first time since assuming office

Pakistan and China are set to start three new corridors in November, in addition to the multiple billion dollars China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), to strengthen bilateral ties.

The formal launch of the projects could take place during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to China next month following the invitation by President Xi Jinping, The News International reported.

The schedule of Shehbaz's trip is being worked out.

These projects, which include health and digital corridors, were announced by Pakistan's Ambassador to China Moinul Haq while speaking to the China Economic Net (CEN) in Beijing, the report said.

"We would be an important source of help for China in terms of software development. So, we are working together to set up training centres in Pakistan for developing software in different fields of IT," said ambassador Haque.

Citing unidentified sources, the Pakistan newspaper said the new corridors would become sources of strengthening Pakistan-China ties and will provide a new unshakable bond of the proximity of the two nations.

Launched in 2015, the CPEC is a multi-billion dollar development project, with a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

Earlier this year, India had opposed the proposed extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan.

"Any such actions by any party directly infringe on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Such activities are inherently illegal, illegitimate and unacceptable, and will be treated accordingly by India," the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs V Muraleedharan said in a written response.

India's position on CPEC has been clear and consistent. The CPEC passes through parts of the Union Territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh which are under illegal and forcible occupation of Pakistan and hence impinges on the issue of sovereignty and territorial integrity of India.

The Indian government has said it believes that connectivity initiatives must be based on universally recognized international norms.

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Pakistan and China are set to start three new corridors in November, in addition to the multiple billion dollars China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), to strengthen bilateral ties.

Pakistan and China are set to start three new corridors in November, in addition to the multiple billion dollars China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), to strengthen bilateral ties. The formal launch of the projects could take place during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to China next month following the invitation by President Xi Jinping, The News International reported. The schedule of Shehbaz's trip is being worked out. These projects, which include health and digital corridors, were announced by Pakistan's Ambassador to China Moinul Haq while speaking to the China Economic Net (CEN) in Beijing, the report said. "We would be an important source of help for China in terms of software development. So, we are working together to set up training centres in Pakistan for developing software in different fields of IT," said ambassador Haque. Citing unidentified sources, the Pakistan newspaper said the new corridors would become sources of strengthening Pakistan-China ties and will provide a new unshakable bond of the proximity of the two nations. Launched in 2015, the CPEC is a multi-billion dollar development project, with a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. Earlier this year, India had opposed the proposed extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan. "Any such actions by any party directly infringe on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Such activities are inherently illegal, illegitimate and unacceptable, and will be treated accordingly by India," the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs V Muraleedharan said in a written response. India's position on CPEC has been clear and consistent. The CPEC passes through parts of the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh which are under illegal and forcible occupation of Pakistan and hence impinges on the issue of sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. The Indian government has said it believes that connectivity initiatives must be based on universally recognized international norms. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pakistan, China to launch three new CPEC-like corridor projects: Report

Is Afghanistan joining the CPEC? China & Pakistan want to extend the CPEC into Afghanistan to enhance 'regional connectivity'. The plan is to build a motorway linking Kabul to Peshawar. Palki Sharma decodes the security concerns this poses for India.

Gravitas: China & Pakistan want Afghanistan to join CPEC

India has taken umbrage at the invitation extended by Pakistan and China, allowing third countries&nbsp;to join and invest in the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects—a pet project of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

"We have seen reports on encouraging proposed participation of third countries in so-called CPEC projects. Any such actions by any party directly infringe on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a statement.

India’s response came days after the third meeting of the CPEC Joint Working Group (JWG) on International&nbsp;Cooperation and Coordination (JWG-ICC) where all-weather allies Pakistan and China expressed interest in inviting other countries to make investments in the project.

"As an open and inclusive platform, both sides welcomed interested third parties to benefit from avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation opened up by CPEC," the Pakistan Foreign Office statement said.

CPEC is a combination of transport and energy projects that will largely centre on an economic corridor from Gwadar in Pakistan to Kashgar in the Chinese region of Xinjiang.

India’s opposition to CPEC stems from the fact that the proposed economic corridor traverses through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-china-invite-any-third-country-to-join-cpec-project-499943">Pakistan, China invite ‘any third country’ to join CPEC project</a>

China has been defending the CPEC, saying it is an economic project not aimed at any third country.

“India firmly and consistently opposes projects in the so-called CPEC, which are in Indian territory that has been illegally occupied by Pakistan,” Bagchi said.

“Such activities are inherently illegal, illegitimate and unacceptable, and will be treated accordingly by India,” he added.

Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020, according to BBC.

Though it has not been revealed who might be investing in the project, a Global Times report on January 16 suggested that Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Germany might come on board.

India has taken umbrage at the invitation extended by Pakistan and China, allowing third countries to join and invest in the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects—a pet project of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

India has taken umbrage at the invitation extended by Pakistan and China, allowing third countries to join and invest in the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects—a pet project of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). "We have seen reports on encouraging proposed participation of third countries in so-called CPEC projects. Any such actions by any party directly infringe on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a statement. India’s response came days after the third meeting of the CPEC Joint Working Group (JWG) on International Cooperation and Coordination (JWG-ICC) where all-weather allies Pakistan and China expressed interest in inviting other countries to make investments in the project. "As an open and inclusive platform, both sides welcomed interested third parties to benefit from avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation opened up by CPEC," the Pakistan Foreign Office statement said. CPEC is a combination of transport and energy projects that will largely centre on an economic corridor from Gwadar in Pakistan to Kashgar in the Chinese region of Xinjiang. India’s opposition to CPEC stems from the fact that the proposed economic corridor traverses through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Also read | Pakistan, China invite ‘any third country’ to join CPEC project China has been defending the CPEC, saying it is an economic project not aimed at any third country. “India firmly and consistently opposes projects in the so-called CPEC, which are in Indian territory that has been illegally occupied by Pakistan,” Bagchi said. “Such activities are inherently illegal, illegitimate and unacceptable, and will be treated accordingly by India,” he added. Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020, according to BBC. Though it has not been revealed who might be investing in the project, a Global Times report on January 16 suggested that Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Germany might come on board.

India slams Pak-China’s proposal to invite third countries in CPEC projects

Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has clarified that the Padma Bridge— multipurpose road-rail bridge across the Padma River, the main distributary of the Ganges—is not part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), putting rest to speculations on&nbsp;Beijing’s presence in the Indian neighbourhood.

BRI or the “One Belt, One Road” initiative is a flagship programme of President Xi Jinping for trade and connectivity. India has often raised concerns over the BRI projects because of a key part– the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) – passing&nbsp;through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

In a statement, Bangladesh MoFA said, “Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically asserts that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been entirely funded by the Government of Bangladesh and no foreign funds from any bilateral or multilateral funding agency have financially contributed to its construction.”

The response came amid reports that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been constructed under the Chinese BRI and foreign funds.

According to the foreign ministry, the completion of the bridge— which is scheduled to open on June 25—will fulfil the dream of Bangladesh of connecting the 19 south-western districts to the rest of the country resulting in collective prosperity, socio-economic development of the country as well as enhanced regional connectivity.

The 6-km bridge, which is located about 40 kilometres south of Dhaka, is expected to boost trade and commerce in Bangladesh's southwest region and, according to official estimates, increase the country's GDP by 1.2 per cent.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the main construction work of the bridge in 2015. When completed it will be the largest bridge in Bangladesh and the first fixed river crossing for road traffic.

It will connect Louhajong, Munshiganj to Shariatpur and Madaripur, linking the south-west of the country, to northern and eastern regions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has clarified that the Padma Bridge— multipurpose road-rail bridge across the Padma River, the main distributary of the Ganges—is not part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), putting rest to speculations on Beijing’s presence in the Indian neighbourhood.

Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has clarified that the Padma Bridge— multipurpose road-rail bridge across the Padma River, the main distributary of the Ganges—is not part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), putting rest to speculations on Beijing’s presence in the Indian neighbourhood. BRI or the “One Belt, One Road” initiative is a flagship programme of President Xi Jinping for trade and connectivity. India has often raised concerns over the BRI projects because of a key part– the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) – passing through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). In a statement, Bangladesh MoFA said, “Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically asserts that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been entirely funded by the Government of Bangladesh and no foreign funds from any bilateral or multilateral funding agency have financially contributed to its construction.” The response came amid reports that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been constructed under the Chinese BRI and foreign funds. According to the foreign ministry, the completion of the bridge— which is scheduled to open on June 25—will fulfil the dream of Bangladesh of connecting the 19 south-western districts to the rest of the country resulting in collective prosperity, socio-economic development of the country as well as enhanced regional connectivity. The 6-km bridge, which is located about 40 kilometres south of Dhaka, is expected to boost trade and commerce in Bangladesh's southwest region and, according to official estimates, increase the country's GDP by 1.2 per cent. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the main construction work of the bridge in 2015. When completed it will be the largest bridge in Bangladesh and the first fixed river crossing for road traffic. It will connect Louhajong, Munshiganj to Shariatpur and Madaripur, linking the south-west of the country, to northern and eastern regions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangladesh denies Padma Bridge project being part of China’s Belt and Road Imitative

In the wake of a spate of attacks against the Chinese nationals living in Pakistan, officials in the capital Islamabad city have asked the foreign nationals to inform the police prior to their movement to ensure their safety, local media reports.

According to Dawn newspaper, this decision was taken during a meeting held to review the performance of the recently-established District Foreign Security Cell by Islamabad Police for the security of foreigners, especially Chinese nationals.

There are over 1,000 Chinese nationals living in the national capital engaged in over three dozen projects, companies and businesses, the Islamabad police officials were quoted as saying, adding that the Chinese attached with the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project were provided security cover by security forces and paramilitary troops.

It was decided in the meeting that either Station House Officers (SHOs) of police stations, security division or patrolling unit would provide security cover to over 1,000 Chinese nationals during their movement, the officials said.

The SHOs have been tasked with collecting their details.

CCTV cameras would be installed around the residences of the Chinese nationals as well as on the roads leading to their houses, the officials said.

The official added that DIG Operations was asked to visit the residential areas where the Chinese were living and prepare a security audit report to plug loopholes in the security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-pakistan-chinas-project-turned-balochistan-into-land-of-disappeared-350877">How Pakistan, China's project turned Balochistan into land of disappeared</a>

A desk is also being established at Safe City and Police Facilitation, they added.

There has been a spate of targeted attacks against the Chinese people in Pakistan for their involvement in the CPEC project.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-pakistans-repression-to-chinese-discrimination-the-untold-story-of-balochistan-443140">&nbsp;From Pakistan's repression to Chinese discrimination: The untold story of Balochistan</a>

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group based in Pakistan’s western Balochistan province, opposes Chinese investment in Pakistan, saying local people do not benefit.

Balochistan, bordering Iran and Afghanistan, is home to a long-running violent insurgency. Baloch insurgent groups have previously carried out several attacks targeting the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the wake of a spate of attacks against the Chinese nationals living in Pakistan, officials in the capital Islamabad city have asked the foreign nationals to inform the police prior to their movement to ensure their safety, local media reports.

In the wake of a spate of attacks against the Chinese nationals living in Pakistan, officials in the capital Islamabad city have asked the foreign nationals to inform the police prior to their movement to ensure their safety, local media reports. According to Dawn newspaper, this decision was taken during a meeting held to review the performance of the recently-established District Foreign Security Cell by Islamabad Police for the security of foreigners, especially Chinese nationals. There are over 1,000 Chinese nationals living in the national capital engaged in over three dozen projects, companies and businesses, the Islamabad police officials were quoted as saying, adding that the Chinese attached with the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project were provided security cover by security forces and paramilitary troops. It was decided in the meeting that either Station House Officers (SHOs) of police stations, security division or patrolling unit would provide security cover to over 1,000 Chinese nationals during their movement, the officials said. The SHOs have been tasked with collecting their details. CCTV cameras would be installed around the residences of the Chinese nationals as well as on the roads leading to their houses, the officials said. The official added that DIG Operations was asked to visit the residential areas where the Chinese were living and prepare a security audit report to plug loopholes in the security. Also read | How Pakistan, China's project turned Balochistan into land of disappeared A desk is also being established at Safe City and Police Facilitation, they added. There has been a spate of targeted attacks against the Chinese people in Pakistan for their involvement in the CPEC project. Also read | From Pakistan's repression to Chinese discrimination: The untold story of Balochistan The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group based in Pakistan’s western Balochistan province, opposes Chinese investment in Pakistan, saying local people do not benefit. Balochistan, bordering Iran and Afghanistan, is home to a long-running violent insurgency. Baloch insurgent groups have previously carried out several attacks targeting the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese nationals living in Pak asked to inform police about their movement: Report

As Pakistan's economic situation worsens & external debt soars the IMF has asked the PM Shehbaz Sharif govt to renegotiate CPEC deals. Can Pakistan really do this? Palki Sharma tells you how Islamabad has no say in CPEC

Gravitas: Why Pakistan has no say in CPEC

Disclaimer:&nbsp;WION does not endorse terrorism or any other kind of violence. As a responsible media organisation, WION gives priority to reporting facts without glorifying any perpetrators or the heinous acts done by any individual or group.

Pakistan was rocked by a suicide bombing that killed four outside Karachi University.&nbsp;Three Chinese tutors and their Pakistani driver died in a targeted suicide bombing at varsity’s Confucius Institute on Tuesday afternoon.

The blast carried out by the Majeed Brigade of separatist Balochistan Liberation Army sent shockwaves as this was the first suicide bombing by a woman from the militant organisation.

Days later, her identity was revealed to be Shari Baloch, a secondary school teacher in her native Kech district.

Who is Shari Baloch?

According to Afghan journalist Bashir Ahmad Gwakh, Shari Baloch was a 30-year-old woman who had a Master's degree in Zoology and pursued MPhil in education while teaching at a school.

Her husband is a dentist, while her father was a registrar at the University of Turbat recently and remained part of the district ombudsman's team for at least three years.

He has also served as Director to the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA).&nbsp;

She is survived by two kids —eight-year-old Mahrosh and four-year-old Meer Hassan—as per reports.

According to reports, the family is well educated and had no connection with any armed groups.

One brother is a tehsildar -- a grade 16 officer and another brother works at the district court. One of her uncles is a retired professor, an author and a rights activist. Two of her cousins are doctors.

As a student, Shaari had remained a member of the Baloch students' organisation and was aware of the Baloch genocide and occupation of Balochistan.

The involvement of Shari, an educated woman, in the attack has sent alarm bells ringing.&nbsp;

History of Baloch resistance

Balochistan has long sought independence from Pakistan and has been against China’s multi-billion-dollar One Belt One Road (OBOR) project, which seems to have been the reason behind the targeted attacks on the Chinese citizens in Pakistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blood-should-not-be-shed-in-vain-china-seeks-strong-action-in-pakistan-suicide-attack-474254">‘Blood should not be shed in vain’: China seeks strong action in Pakistan suicide attack</a>

The BLA, operating out of Balochistan, has been leading a low-level insurgency against Islamabad, and the Pakistani establishment has retaliated with a brutal crackdown on activists, often on the basis of suspicion, thus drawing international condemnation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/possible-suicide-attack-in-pakistan-3-chinese-people-killed-473965">Baloch group claims Pak suicide blast carried out by woman that killed 3 Chinese</a>

Disclaimer: As a responsible media organisation, WION takes utmost priority in reporting facts without glorifying any perpetrator or the heinous acts done by any separatist/ terrorist organisation.

Watch |&nbsp;Who is Shari Baloch? The woman suicide bomber in Pak

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-is-shari-baloch-meet-woman-behind-pakistans-suicide-bomb-blast-474382/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION does not endorse terrorism or any other kind of violence. As a responsible media organisation, WION gives priority to reporting facts without glorifying any perpetrators or the heinous acts done by any individual or group.

Disclaimer: WION does not endorse terrorism or any other kind of violence. As a responsible media organisation, WION gives priority to reporting facts without glorifying any perpetrators or the heinous acts done by any individual or group. Pakistan was rocked by a suicide bombing that killed four outside Karachi University. Three Chinese tutors and their Pakistani driver died in a targeted suicide bombing at varsity’s Confucius Institute on Tuesday afternoon. The blast carried out by the Majeed Brigade of separatist Balochistan Liberation Army sent shockwaves as this was the first suicide bombing by a woman from the militant organisation. Days later, her identity was revealed to be Shari Baloch, a secondary school teacher in her native Kech district. Who is Shari Baloch? According to Afghan journalist Bashir Ahmad Gwakh, Shari Baloch was a 30-year-old woman who had a Master's degree in Zoology and pursued MPhil in education while teaching at a school. Her husband is a dentist, while her father was a registrar at the University of Turbat recently and remained part of the district ombudsman's team for at least three years. He has also served as Director to the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA). She is survived by two kids —eight-year-old Mahrosh and four-year-old Meer Hassan—as per reports. According to reports, the family is well educated and had no connection with any armed groups. One brother is a tehsildar -- a grade 16 officer and another brother works at the district court. One of her uncles is a retired professor, an author and a rights activist. Two of her cousins are doctors. As a student, Shaari had remained a member of the Baloch students' organisation and was aware of the Baloch genocide and occupation of Balochistan. The involvement of Shari, an educated woman, in the attack has sent alarm bells ringing. History of Baloch resistance Balochistan has long sought independence from Pakistan and has been against China’s multi-billion-dollar One Belt One Road (OBOR) project, which seems to have been the reason behind the targeted attacks on the Chinese citizens in Pakistan. Also read | ‘Blood should not be shed in vain’: China seeks strong action in Pakistan suicide attack The BLA, operating out of Balochistan, has been leading a low-level insurgency against Islamabad, and the Pakistani establishment has retaliated with a brutal crackdown on activists, often on the basis of suspicion, thus drawing international condemnation. Also read | Baloch group claims Pak suicide blast carried out by woman that killed 3 Chinese Disclaimer: As a responsible media organisation, WION takes utmost priority in reporting facts without glorifying any perpetrator or the heinous acts done by any separatist/ terrorist organisation. Watch | Who is Shari Baloch? The woman suicide bomber in Pak (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Shari Baloch? The woman suicide bomber who attacked Pakistan’s Karachi University

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