Pakistan, China CPEC faces a big setback
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Islamabad has made the decision to enhance security measures in order to protect China's economic interests, given the challenging security environment faced by Chinese citizens, projects, and institutions in Pakistan.
Both Islamabad and Beijing have agreed to strengthen their cooperation on security matters and jointly counter any threats to their friendship and cooperation. This understanding was reached during the 11th Joint Cooperation Committee meeting, the highest decision-making body for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The two countries spent over 10 months developing a consensus on various areas of cooperation, including security. Recently, Pakistan conducted a review of CPEC's implementation and decided that Planning Minister Sami Saeed would hold a special meeting with Pakistani security officials to assess the security measures agreed upon with China during the 11th JCC.
The wording of the final document reflects China's serious concern for the security of its citizens and interests in Pakistan. Over the years, Chinese citizens working on CPEC projects have been targeted, prompting a reevaluation of security arrangements.
Additionally, issues related to policy implementation and unsolicited proposals from Pakistan have posed challenges to CPEC progress. This resulted in China refraining from expanding cooperation in areas like energy, climate change, and tourism during the 11th JCC.
Both countries now recognize the importance of an enhanced plan to safeguard Chinese citizens and investments in Pakistan, with security cooperation being strengthened through mutual consensus.
Pakistan has established two special security divisions for the protection of Chinese investment under CPEC and will use bulletproof vehicles for outdoor movements of Chinese nationals. China will provide security equipment and training to Pakistani officials.
For non-CPEC projects, the existing security arrangements will be reinforced. Pakistan emphasizes that Chinese citizens should adhere to security protocols and local labor laws. China promises to supervise its companies in Pakistan to ensure compliance with security regulations.
Pakistan is creating criteria for ranking private security companies, and only recognized competent companies will be hired for Chinese security. To counter negative propaganda against CPEC, Pakistan and China plan to publicize the project's achievements and mutual benefits.
They also aim to promote CPEC regionally as a contributor to peace and stability. Furthermore, they seek to involve Afghanistan in regional CPEC projects, identifying prospective projects for Afghan participation.
However, the formal approval of modalities for a third country's participation in CPEC is pending, potentially causing delays in signing agreements at the Belt and Road Forum in China.
