Beijing upsets with Islamabad amid Chinese nationals killing in Karachi blast

Beijing demanded an in-depth inquiry following a terrorist incident near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport on Sunday night that targeted a convoy carrying Chinese employees of Port Qasim Electric Power Company (Private) Limited.

Two Chinese nationals were killed and one wounded in the incident. According to preliminary accounts, at least eight cars were destroyed and an additional seven persons were hurt.

“We firmly denounce this terrorist act, offer our sincere condolences to the grieving people of both nations, as well as our heartfelt sympathies to those who were injured and their families. We are working closely with the Pakistani side to manage the aftermath,” the Chinese embassy statement on Monday.

The embassy went on to say that it is working closely with the Pakistani side to manage the fallout.

“Severely punish those responsible, and take every step needed to protect the security of Chinese citizens, structures, and projects in Pakistan,” it said, adding that the Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in the country have promptly initiated an emergency plan.

The Foreign Office (FO) thereafter sent a statement expressing its sincere thoughts and condolences to the relatives of the dead, who were Pakistani and Chinese.

The FO declared, “This heinous act of violence is an assault not only on Pakistan as well as on the long-lasting friendship between China and Pakistan.”

The government went on to say that Pakistan is still committed to holding the Majeed Brigade and other perpetrators of this barbaric act accountable.

“Pakistan’s law enforcement and security services will stop at nothing to catch the criminals and those who assist them.”

“There will be consequences for this heinous deed.”

On Sunday, an enormous explosion targeting Chinese nationals happened close outside the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, and caused two dead and nine others wounded, according to preliminary reports.