China and Pakistan, often referred to as “iron brothers” and once celebrated as steadfast allies, are currently navigating a complex phase in their relationship. This evolution is characterized by efforts to revive strained economic and strategic ties, particularly in the context of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Under CPEC, China pledged approximately $62 billion for infrastructure projects in Pakistan, which include critical projects such as a mega port, highways, railways, and power plants.
However, a decade after CPEC’s commencement, many of these projects are progressing sluggishly due to accumulating challenges. Central to these challenges are Chinese security concerns that have arisen from regional instability and governance-related problems within Pakistan.
The increase in terror attacks in Pakistan following the Afghan Taliban’s rise to power in Kabul in 2021 has significantly affected the security situation in the country, directly impacting the safety of Chinese workers. An attack in northern Pakistan in March 2024 claimed the lives of five Chinese engineers. More recently, in November, a militant attack near Karachi airport resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals and injured at least ten others.
This troubling situation has led to growing frustration among Chinese officials based in Pakistan. They have become more vocal and public in expressing their concerns regarding security and its effects on the progress of CPEC projects.
China’s ambassador in Islamabad, Jiang Zaidong, recently confronted Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at a public event, stating, “It is unacceptable for us to be attacked twice in only six months.” This public confrontation was unusual, as both nations have typically avoided airing grievances openly.
However, China’s outspoken criticism of Pakistan — particularly about security issues and inefficiencies in joint projects — risks creating misunderstandings and could strain the historically strong bilateral relationship.
According to a recent report published by The Guardian this week, Wang Shengjie, China’s political secretary to Pakistan, censured Islamabad for not doing enough to resolve security woes. “There is animosity toward the Chinese in Gwadar and Balochistan,” he was quoted as saying. The Chinese official’s remark left an impression that local sentiments may not be in favor of CPEC.
This shocking report left Pakistani officials concerned and unsure of how to address this alleged latest round of criticism from their Chinese counterparts. Some government officials reportedly reached out to the embassy to clarify whether Chinese officials are now engaging with journalists and expressing discontent regarding CPEC.
The Chinese embassy in Pakistan responded to the article in The Guardian that purportedly quoted a Chinese diplomat, stating that the claims published were “unilaterally fabricated” and “lacked a basic understanding of China’s position.”
In its statement, China reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the development of Gwadar Port in particular and Balochistan province in general. The embassy highlighted tangible achievements from the past year, which include emergency aid, infrastructure projects, and cultural exchanges. According to the Chinese embassy, these efforts demonstrate Beijing’s determination to strengthen practical cooperation and improve local livelihoods in Pakistan.
Additionally, the embassy emphasized that China’s ongoing investment in projects such as Gwadar Port, CPEC, and various humanitarian initiatives underscores its long-term commitment to Pakistan’s development.
While China has refuted claims made by The Guardian regarding a diplomat’s statement on challenges to CPEC, Beijing did not explicitly deny that discussions on the subject may have taken place with the media outlet, leaving ambiguity over whether the conversation was authorized by senior Chinese officials.
This incident may signal a subtle shift in China’s approach to engaging with Pakistan, potentially reflecting its growing frustrations with delays and obstacles in CPEC projects, while still maintaining a public stance of unwavering support for Pakistan. The relationship between Pakistan and China is currently undergoing a period of recalibration as both nations face unmet expectations and shifting priorities.
From Pakistan’s perspective, the expectations are straightforward: there is a call for greater Chinese funding to support economic stability, easier rollovers of existing loans to relieve financial pressures, a reduced emphasis on security-related demands, and increased assistance in addressing the militancy challenge that arises from Afghanistan. These requests are driven by Pakistan’s urgent need to stabilize its economy and ensure regional security, both of which are crucial for the success of joint initiatives like CPEC.
Conversely, China’s priorities focus on protecting its investments in Pakistan, ensuring the safety of its personnel, and realizing tangible returns on its projects. Reports indicate that Beijing is seeking improved security cooperation, which may involve the participation of Chinese security firms and personnel in Pakistan.
Addressing these issues will not be an immediate process. Both countries need to take a patient and pragmatic approach, acknowledging that the strength of their relationship has historically stemmed from their ability to resolve grievances constructively.
Moving forward, open and transparent communication will be essential for rebuilding trust and aligning expectations.
In this context, the upcoming high-level visit by a Pakistani delegation to China, led by the president and including key stakeholders, presents a significant opportunity. The agenda is expected to address critical issues such as security cooperation, economic collaboration, and the challenges facing CPEC.
This visit could lay the groundwork for a new framework for resolving concerns while both sides revert to a strategy of addressing differences behind closed doors and publicly reaffirming their commitment to the partnership.