ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The Federal Minister for Interior Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has said that both Islamabad and Beijing must be cautious about regional and global powers who do not want to see China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for their own interests and reiterated that Pakistan, at all levels, is committed to thwarting all conspiracies against the mega project.
“Secure and successful completion of CPEC would add new dimensions to our friendship cementing our economic as well as strategic bond,” the minister said while talking to a Chinese security delegation led by the Minister for State Security of China Geng Huichang in Islamabad on Thursday.
The officials from China’s counter terrorism, technical and intelligence divisions were also present in the meeting which covered a broader scope of discussion for increased coordination between security establishments of two countries in intelligence sharing, counter terrorism coordination, and security of CPEC.
The interior minister said that CEPC would also help Pakistan and China expand their trade footprint in region and beyond.
“CPEC is not only flagship project between the two countries but also focuses on strategic depth in Pak-China relationship,” Nisar said.
Nisar said that two sides should exponentially enhance intelligence sharing precisely in fight against terrorism, extremism and countering violence. He said that Pakistan’s expanded cooperation with China in counter terrorism, security and trade domains would arguably be a defining partnership in 21st century.
About security of Chinese citizens working across Pakistan in different development projects including CPEC, the minister pointed out that a Special Security Division is already working under Pakistan Army to secure their lives.
Commenting over ongoing fight against terrorists groups, Nisar said that operation Zarb-e-Azb dividends have started reaping its benefits.
The minister said that Pakistan would continue its fight against all terrorist groups who create disturbance and generate violence in Pakistan. He said that Pakistan is committed for not allowing any group to use its territory for violence abroad.
Meanwhile, Geng Huichang appreciated efforts of Pakistan in fight against terrorism, specially the gains achieved under operation Zarb-e-Azb.
The two sides agreed to further strengthen information and intelligence sharing through extended technical cooperation and coordination.
