ISLAMABAD: Pakistan condemned the killing of Chinese nationals in a terrorist attack in Tajikistan. The incident occurred near the Afghan border and involved a strike launched from Afghanistan. According to Tajik officials, the attack killed three Chinese workers employed by a Chinese company in southern Tajikistan. They said armed drones and firearms were used against the workers.
Islamabad issued a statement through the Foreign Office. It described the assault as a heinous terrorist attack and expressed deep grief over the loss of life. The statement conveyed condolences to the governments and people of China and Tajikistan. It said Pakistan stands in strong solidarity with both nations during this difficult moment.
Attack Highlights Cross-Border Threats
The Foreign Office noted reports of armed drone involvement in the attack. It said the use of such weapons shows the growing gravity of threats emerging from Afghanistan. It warned that the brazenness of those behind the attack highlights continuing security challenges in the region.
Islamabad said Pakistan has long suffered from similar cross-border assaults. It added that Pakistan fully understands the grief felt by China and Tajikistan. It reiterated that Afghan soil must not be used for terrorism against neighbouring states. It stressed that repeated attacks by groups operating inside Afghanistan remain a serious concern for the region.
The statement said the presence of terrorist elements under the patronage of the Afghan Taliban regime continues to alarm regional governments. It argued that concrete and verifiable action remains essential. It called for firm steps against all perpetrators, facilitators and financiers behind such violence.
Regional Concerns Grow Over Afghan-Based Militants
Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to working with China, Tajikistan and regional partners to support stability. The attack occurred as Tajikistan maintains strained relations with the Taliban. Several border clashes have taken place in recent months.
Tajikistan rarely comments on such incidents. It did not identify suspects behind the attack. However, militants from extremist groups remain active along the mountainous border. This region spans around 1,350 kilometres between Tajikistan and Afghanistan.
Tajikistan remains concerned about extremism since the Taliban regained power in 2021. President Emomali Rakhmon remains openly critical of the Taliban. He has urged them to respect the rights of ethnic Tajiks in Afghanistan. Yet Tajikistan has cautiously engaged the Taliban in limited areas, including trade and diplomatic contacts.
The Tajik foreign ministry said criminal groups in Afghanistan continue attempts to destabilise border districts. Several Chinese companies operate in the affected region, many involved in mining and natural resources. One Chinese worker died last year in a similar attack near the same border zone.
