Karachi: Chinese workers at a textile factory in the southern port city were shot and wounded by a Pakistani guard on Tuesday. Local police stated that the incident does not appear linked to terrorism. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the shooting, with early reports indicating that a personal dispute may have led to the guard’s actions. Both Chinese nationals sustained injuries and received treatment at a nearby hospital.
The incident adds to a growing list of security concerns for Chinese workers in Pakistan. China has urged Pakistani authorities to enhance security measures for its citizens, especially following a deadly attack last month, where two Chinese individuals lost their lives in a suicide bombing at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. These incidents have heightened fears and pressures on both governments to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals in Pakistan.
Many Chinese workers are in Pakistan, primarily because of China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This multibillion-dollar infrastructure program aims to enhance trade and economic connectivity across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The BRI has spurred extensive projects, including roads, ports, and energy facilities under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). As a result, thousands of Chinese professionals and labourers work in various sectors, from construction and energy to smaller industries like textiles, making security a critical concern In Pakistan, the BRI has led to extensive projects, including roads, ports, and energy facilities under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Thousands of Chinese professionals and labourers work in various sectors, from construction and energy to smaller industries like textiles, making security a critical concern.