Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, experienced a strict security lockdown on Monday as Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived ahead of this week’s Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The visit marks the first by a Chinese premier in 11 years, according to the Prime Minister’s Office of Pakistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Li at the airport.
Heightened Security And Public Holidays
The Pakistani government has declared a three-day public holiday in Islamabad, closing schools and businesses. Large numbers of police and paramilitary forces have been deployed to ensure security throughout the city. The Pakistan army will secure the Red Zone, where key governmental buildings, including the parliament and diplomatic enclaves, are located. Most of the SCO meetings will take place in this zone, according to the interior ministry.
Security concerns have been high, especially following recent violent incidents. These include the killing of two Chinese engineers and the deaths of 21 miners in targeted attacks. The South Asian nation has heightened its threat alert in anticipation of the SCO summit.
Focus On Chinese Nationals’ Security
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that security for Chinese nationals in Pakistan has been significantly increased. He assured that Prime Minister Sharif has taken a “deep, keen, personal focus” on their protection. Tarar added that a high-level investigation is underway regarding the recent attacks on Chinese citizens.
“I believe this visit by the Chinese premier will be a landmark and a turning point in our relationship,” Tarar stated. He also expressed that China was satisfied with Pakistan’s efforts in addressing security concerns.
In the lead-up to the SCO summit, tensions in Pakistan have grown due to ongoing political unrest. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently jailed, has called for a protest on October 15. His supporters have clashed with security forces, raising additional concerns.
SCO Summit And Bilateral Talks
The 23rd SCO summit will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, with participation from China, India, Russia, Iran, and other member nations. Premier Li’s visit also includes a four-day bilateral stay in Pakistan, where he will meet with Prime Minister Sharif to discuss trade, economic cooperation, and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). CPEC represents a $65 billion Chinese investment in Pakistan, part of President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative.
During his visit, Premier Li will also inaugurate the new CPEC-funded Gwadar International Airport in Balochistan, a province known for its restive conditions and strategic location near Afghanistan and Iran.
(With inputs from Reuters)
