ISLAMABAD: Reacting strongly to the Shangla terrorist attack, which claimed six lives including five Chinese nationals, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir asserted that the military would spare no effort to ensure the safety and security of every foreign citizen, particularly Chinese nationals contributing to Pakistan’s prosperity.
During an emergency meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in response to the attack on Chinese nationals working on the Dasu Hydel Power Project in Besham city, the COAS reaffirmed the armed forces’ determination to eradicate terrorism from the country. He stated that despite recent terrorist incidents, Pakistan’s resilience had thwarted the malicious intentions of its adversaries.
General Munir declared, “We shall fight terrorism relentlessly until every terrorist threatening Pakistan and its people, including our guests, is eliminated. We are committed to ensuring the safety of every foreign citizen, especially Chinese nationals, contributing to Pakistan’s prosperity. We will combat terrorism with full force until the end.”
The high-level meeting, attended by federal ministers, chief ministers, chief secretaries, and inspector generals of police (IGPs), focused on the brutal attack on civilians involved in a development project vital for Pakistan’s energy and water security.
Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and vowed swift justice for the perpetrators. He highlighted the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China, expressing the nation’s sorrow over the loss of Chinese lives.
The premier commended the prompt response of law enforcement agencies and locals, which prevented further casualties. He called for a thorough joint investigation utilizing all state resources.
Addressing terrorism as a transnational threat, PM Shehbaz emphasized its use by Pakistan’s enemies to hinder progress and sow discord between Pakistan and China.
Participants of the meeting reiterated their commitment to eradicating terrorism from the country and voiced concerns over terrorist sanctuaries across borders, stressing the need for a regional approach to counter-terrorism.
The session concluded with a collective resolve to combat terrorism comprehensively, utilizing all available state resources.
