Two Chinese nationals were killed and one was injured after a convoy carrying Chinese staff of the Port Qasim Electric Power Company (Private) Limited was attacked near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi on Sunday around 11 pm. The attack also caused casualties among local Pakistanis.
Security officials work on the site of an explosion that caused casualties and injuries and destroyed vehicles outside the Karachi airport, Pakistan, Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. (Photo: CFP)
The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Pakistan strongly condemned this terrorist attack, expressed deep condolences to the innocent victims of both countries, and offered sincere sympathies to the injured and their families. They are making every effort to handle the aftermath in collaboration with the Pakistani side, according to a statement issued by the Chinese embassy on Monday.
The Chinese side has launched an emergency plan immediately, requesting the Pakistani side to thoroughly investigate the attack, severely punish the perpetrators, and take all necessary measures to protect the safety of Chinese citizens, institutions, and projects in Pakistan.
The embassy reminded Chinese citizens, enterprises, and projects in Pakistan to be vigilant, pay close attention to the security situation, strengthen security measures, and make every effort to take safety precautions.
Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, said he deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic incident in Karachi, which resulted in the loss of two precious Chinese lives and injuring another.
He strongly condemned this "heinous act" and offered his heartfelt condolences to the Chinese leadership and the people of China, particularly the families of the victims.
"May the injured recover soon. The perpetrators of this dastardly incident cannot be Pakistanis but are sworn enemies of Pakistan. An immediate investigation is underway to identify them and bring them to justice. Pakistan stands committed to safeguarding our Chinese friends. We will leave no stone unturned to ensure their security & well-being," Shehbaz Sharif said.
In March 2024, five Chinese engineers and a Pakistani national were killed by a suicide bomb near the China-invested Dasu hydropower project. Pakistan has enhanced security measures following that incident. In 2021, nine Chinese engineers were killed in a similar attack near Dasu.