ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed a joint investigation into the Shangla terrorist attack targeting Chinese nationals working on the Dassu Hydel Power Project, ordering the utilization of all available state resources.
In a high-level emergency meeting convened following the terrorist attack on Chinese nationals in Besham area of Shangla district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Prime Minister Sharif expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and assured swift justice for the perpetrators. He commended the prompt response of law enforcement agencies and locals, which helped save many lives.
The meeting, attended by Federal Ministers, Chief of the Army Staff, Chief Ministers, Chief Secretaries, and Inspector Generals of Police from respective provinces, extensively discussed the heinous attack on innocent civilians contributing to Pakistan’s energy and water security, said a statement release from the Prime Minister Office.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the strong bond between Pakistan and China, stating that the entire nation mourns the loss of Chinese lives. He denounced terrorism as a transnational threat utilized by enemies to hinder Pakistan’s progress.
He stated, “Terrorism is a trans-national threat that has been instrumentalized by the enemies of Pakistan to stymie Pakistan’s progress and development. The acts targeting Pakistan-China friendship are particularly aimed at creating mistrust between the two iron brothers”.
During the meeting, the Chief of the Army Staff reiterated the armed forces’ determination to eliminate terrorism, emphasizing Pakistan’s resilience in combating terrorism for the past two decades.
He pledged to ensure the safety of foreign citizens, particularly Chinese nationals contributing to Pakistan’s prosperity.
