Pakistan's recent launch of a "reinvigorated and re-energized" counter-terrorism campaign, Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, comes amidst growing dissatisfaction from China regarding the security of its investments and personnel in the country.
The move underscores the significant influence China wields over Pakistan, particularly due to its substantial investments in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.
China's concerns primarily stem from the increasing number of attacks targeting Chinese nationals and projects in Pakistan. The Dasu terrorist attack in March, which killed five Chinese nationals, further heightened these concerns.
Beijing has reportedly expressed its dissatisfaction with Islamabad's efforts to protect Chinese interests and has called for stronger security measures.
The Chinese government has been vocal about its expectations, demanding a safer environment for its investments and personnel. During recent high-level meetings, Chinese officials emphasized the need for Pakistan to improve its security situation and create a more conducive environment for foreign investment.
Pakistan's response, Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, aims to address these concerns through a multi-pronged approach involving military action, legislative changes, and regional diplomacy.
The campaign seeks to not only eliminate the immediate threat posed by terrorist groups but also to establish a more sustainable security infrastructure.
The timing of the campaign, shortly after Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to China, suggests a direct link between Beijing's concerns and Islamabad's renewed counter-terrorism efforts.
The message from China appears to be clear: without adequate security assurances, future Chinese investment in Pakistan, particularly in the CPEC project, could be jeopardized.
This underscores the significant influence China wields over Pakistan's domestic policies, particularly those related to security and economic development.
As Pakistan seeks to attract further Chinese investment and ensure the success of the CPEC project, addressing China's security concerns will remain a top priority.
