ISLAMABAD: The Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, emphasized the crucial interconnection between economic prosperity and security cooperation while dispelling rumors and false assertions surrounding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
In an interview in Aaj News’ Rubaroo program, Jiang Zaidong likened development and security to the two wings of a bird or the two wheels of a vehicle. He stressed that security serves as the bedrock for development, and vice versa, highlighting their symbiotic relationship.
Addressing concerns arising from the Dasu attack in 2021, where 12 individuals tragically lost their lives, including Chinese engineers and Pakistani Frontier Corps personnel, Jiang Zaidong rejected the notion of a “new mission” between the two nations. Instead, he advocated for a comprehensive investigation into the incident to mitigate risks associated with joint projects.
Jiang Zaidong urged collaboration between China and Pakistan to thwart conspiracies aimed at undermining their cooperation, safeguard development through enhanced security measures, and ensure the optimal progress of the CPEC.
Furthermore, echoing the sentiments expressed after the Bisham suicide blast that claimed the lives of five Chinese nationals working on the Dasu dam project, Jiang Zaidong stressed the imperative for Pakistan to bolster its counter-terrorism efforts.
He underscored the importance of prioritizing the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions within Pakistan, emphasizing that national security should ultimately serve the interests of the people, fostering prosperity and welfare.
Expressing deep sorrow and condemnation over the attacks, Jiang Zaidong emphasized the need for both China and Pakistan to prioritize the lives of individuals affected by such incidents.
He urged Pakistan to swiftly investigate and hold accountable those responsible for the attacks, while also advocating for heightened anti-terrorism measures to ensure a secure environment conducive to bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership between the two nations.
I am an experienced writer, analyst, and author. My exposure in English journalism spans more than 28 years. In the past, I have been working with daily The Muslim (Lahore Bureau), daily Business Recorder (Lahore/Islamabad Bureaus), Daily Times, Islamabad, daily The Nation (Lahore and Karachi). With daily The Nation, I have served as Resident Editor, Karachi. Since 2009, I have been working as a Freelance Writer/Editor for American organizations.
