Security Challenges Facing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): Concerns for Pakistan and China

China has placed significant diplomatic pressure on its close ally Pakistan to take decisive action against the terrorist groups responsible for frequent attacks on Chinese nationals and projects that are associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). However, Pakistan has been struggling with a surge in violence from militant groups, particularly the Taliban, who assumed power in Afghanistan following the retreat of American forces in 2021.

In 2024 alone, Pakistan faced over 750 militant attacks, with November being the deadliest month of the year. Additionally, insurgent activities have intensified, with 129 attacks recorded in 2023 compared to 87 in 2022. This economic corridor is also a pivotal route from Xinjiang to the Arabian Sea and beyond. Ongoing attacks from militant groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) not only threaten the Chinese nationals and infrastructure but also undermine the success and viability of the initiative. Newer security measures for the project of CPEC have been put into place to fulfil security concerns. 

The Strategic Importance of CPEC 

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) runs from the Chinese border to the Gwadar seaport. A strategically pivotal location for China, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), enables Beijing to bypass the Strait of Malacca. However, this project, which was launched in 2013 under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is a significant project connecting Beijing to other countries through Pakistan. With the massive investment of $65 billion, the development of roads, ports, and infrastructure has played a vital role in strengthening connectivity. Conversely, this project has shown more robust progress compared to the other six corridors under the (BRI) initiative.    

Threats to CPEC

Balochistan Liberation Army – Majeed Brigade 

Despite the pledge of economic growth, Pakistan has continuously faced security challenges. For instance, the Majeed Brigade, a wing of the (BLA) attacked the Gwadar Port Authority Complex, targeting security personnel. Additionally, a suicide bomb attack in Dasu on March 2 resulted in the deaths of five Chinese workers.

Suicide Attacks Against Chinese Nationals

Similarly, another militant suicide bombing in 2021 targeted a bus near the Dasu Dam, killing nine Chinese nationals. These terrorist attacks have been speculated to be attributed to Baloch separatist groups and the Pakistani Taliban (TTP).

In addition, Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province in terms of area and remains the most underdeveloped region. Ethnic insurgency, terrorism, and sectarian violence are the primary barriers to progress in the province. The three most notable Baloch militant groups operating in this region are the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Baloch Republican Army (BRA), and Baloch Liberation Front (BLF).

PC Gwadar and Karachi University 

To sabotage the project, the Baloch militant groups have engaged in terrorist activities against Chinese nationals, such as the attack on Pearl Continental Hotel Gwadar, which killed four people, including a soldier, the attack on the Chinese Consulate, and the other attack on the Confucious Institute at Karachi University. As a result, three Chinese teachers were killed. Consequently, these militant groups perceive any development in the province as threatening the region. Both the people of Baloch and separatist groups argue that China is exploiting their natural resources under the (CPEC). Continuously, the Baloch insurgency has demonstrated to China that the province has faced more reprisal from its fighters.   

Impact on Iron-Clad Friendship  

Beijing perceives the challenges and delays in (CPEC) project as a consequence of rising insecurity in Pakistan, adversely affecting Chinese lives and investments. In the past, China relied on the host governments to protest its interests. However, Beijing is now expanding its global footprint. Moreover, China is turning its posture to position itself as a global security leader under the (BRI) framework, where defense ties and security cooperation are emphasized over economic development. For instance, in July 2024, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif officially visited Beijing to secure additional investments to enhance economic cooperation. Consequently, the visit concluded without substantial economic investments. However, analysts have incited that the Chinese government’s measured stance is primarily fueled by concerns over security implications that endanger risk to their nationals and investments.              

Pakistan and its Approach

To address the militant attacks, China and Pakistan both have already established counterterrorism cooperation. This cooperation effort covers three crucial aspects.

1. First, China provides bulletproof vehicles for Chinese engineers.
2. Second, a mutual security alliance focuses on countering insurgent activities and sharing intelligence.
3. Third, Pakistan launched a large-scale operation to eradicate the militants. For this purpose, the government approved Operation Azm-e-Istehkham. As a result, opposition political parties condemned the operation, citing concerns about human rights violations, the economic crisis, and collateral damages. Despite criticism about the operation, Pakistan has launched a program intended to rebuild affected areas, foster economic development, and restore displaced communities.  

Meanwhile, China’s State Council Premier Li Qiang officially visited Pakistan from Oct 14 to Oct 17 during the 23rd meeting of the (SCO) heads of government. There, he emphasized a “zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism,” and also reaffirmed China’s comprehensive support for Pakistan in its efforts to counter militants.      

Conclusion  

To ensure the prosperity of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), addressing terrorism is crucial. For this purpose, Pakistan needs to counter militant groups such as BLA and others, also fostering deeper involvement with local communities to address their grievances to reduce insurgency. Furthermore, Pakistan’s collaboration with China is essential to implement vigorous counter-terrorism measures and secure the viability of CPEC for a long time.    

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