THIS is with reference to the article ‘Targeting Chinese nationals’ (March 31) which highlighted the consequences of recent attacks on Chinese nationals in Pakistan. The country is facing multiple issues of political polarisation, internal and external security, and economic survival. Foremost of these is the existential threat, as all hopes are lying on the multi-billion game-changer China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) venture. Targeting Chinese nationals by terrorist groups has the potential to smash such hopes.

Although the government of Pakistan from time to time has talked of getting hold of the culprits, the attacks on Chinese nationals have continued. Given the alarming issues, it is imperative to adopt a practicable, result-oriented strategy to handle the matter and give confidence to the Chinese people. Although this is a Herculean task that needs enhanced budgetary provision, it does not need the knowledge of rocket science. Satisfactory completion of this revolutionary CPEC project in the scheduled time will be a panacea for most our predicaments.

Siddik S. Jaangda
Karachi

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2024