• Source:Reuters
Add as a preferred

Karachi Airport Explosion: Two Chinese nationals were among the three people killed in an explosion outside Karachi Airport in Pakistan on Sunday night. The Chinese Embassy confirmed the death of two nationals while describing the incident as a ‘terrorist attack’. According to Pakistan broadcaster Geo News, at least 10 people sustained injuries in the blast in addition to some fatalities. 

Following the incident, China urged the Pakistani government to “severely punish” the perpetrators. The Chinese embassy and consulates general in Pakistan, in a statement, also advised its citizens residing in Pakistan to remain vigilant. 

“The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Pakistan have 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. It reminds 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,” the statement read.

In a statement emailed to journalists, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) a separatist militant group, claimed responsibility for the explosion that specifically targeted Chinese nationals. The attack was carried out by them using a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device.

ALSO READ: ‘Old Company’: S Jaishankar’s Veiled Dig At UN Amid Russia-Ukraine War, Middle East Unrest

The BLA seeks independence for Balochistan, a province in southwestern Pakistan that shares borders with Afghanistan and Iran. The separatist group reportedly carried out coordinated attacks in the region in August which resulted in the loss of over 70 lives. BLA specifically targets Chinese interests as it accuses Beijing of helping Islamabad exploit the province.

The blast has heightened tensions in Pakistan just days before the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting set for October 15-16, which is expected to be attended by key delegations from China, Russia, and India. With Islamabad on high alert for a series of significant diplomatic events in the coming weeks, including a visit from Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, the timing of the incident raises concerns about regional security.

Chinese Embassy Reacts

Meanwhile, the Chinese embassy reported that a convoy from the Port Qasim Electric Power Company was attacked near the airport.  "The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Pakistan strongly condemn this terrorist attack, express deep condolences to the innocent victims of both countries and sincere sympathies to the injured and (their) families," the statement said. 

ALSO READ: Gaya Traffic Advisory: Avoid These Key Roads Due To Navratri And Durga Puja Celebrations From October 9- 13

The Chinese Embassy also emphasised that their officials have been working with Pakistani authorities following the explosion.