ISLAMABAD, Tuesday, July 22, 2025 (WNP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals in Pakistan, calling it a “top priority” as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) enters its critical second phase of business-to-business cooperation.
Chairing a high-level meeting on security arrangements for Chinese citizens residing and working in Pakistan, the prime minister emphasized that a secure and business-friendly environment was essential for deepening bilateral economic ties with China.
“The confidence of Chinese companies in Pakistan’s economy is vital to our future,” he stated, underscoring that several robust measures were underway to enhance security, particularly in Islamabad and other key areas where Chinese nationals are engaged in developmental projects.
Highlighting the progress of Safe City projects across the country, the prime minister said these initiatives were being developed to international standards and serve as a critical tool for urban surveillance and law enforcement coordination. “Safe City projects are a reflection of our increasing capability and readiness,” he said.
Officials informed the meeting that new housing societies will also be required to integrate surveillance infrastructure compliant with Safe City standards. Chinese citizens are currently being provided with dedicated security escorts during travel, and all airports in Pakistan will now implement priority facilitation measures for their arrival and departure.
Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi briefed the prime minister on the comprehensive security protocols being implemented nationwide for Chinese nationals, especially in view of potential terrorist threats. He noted that federal and provincial governments were working in close coordination, and that enhanced protective measures had already been deployed.
The meeting was told that strategic urban developments would be closely monitored and that all stakeholders were actively contributing to the safety and comfort of Chinese partners in Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s deep-rooted friendship with China, describing the two countries as “iron brothers.” He noted that with CPEC’s transition into its second phase—focused more on direct commercial partnerships—ensuring the safety of Chinese professionals and investors had become more important than ever.
“CPEC is not just a project—it is a symbol of our shared vision. Protecting our Chinese brothers is our duty and a matter of honor,” he said.
Among those present during the meeting were Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, and senior officials from law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
The government’s assurance comes at a crucial time as Pakistan seeks to expand its economic horizons with the help of strategic partners like China, while maintaining vigilance against security threats that could undermine progress.
