PM Shehbaz vows to step up security for Chinese nationals amid CPEC expansion

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting on Tuesday to review the security arrangements for Chinese nationals across Pakistan, including the capital, Islamabad. The meeting was convened in light of growing cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and rising concerns over potential security threats.

The Prime Minister emphasized that ensuring the safety and security of Chinese citizens working in Pakistan remains a top priority for the government. He stated that several initiatives are underway to enhance protection, including the expansion of Safe City projects across the country.

“China is our brotherly nation with which we share historic, people-centric relations,” Prime Minister Shehbaz said. “We are committed to providing a secure and business-friendly environment for our Chinese brothers, whose contribution is vital to Pakistan’s economic development.”

He further highlighted that CPEC has now entered its second phase, shifting towards business-to-business collaboration, making the security of Chinese professionals even more critical. The Prime Minister directed authorities to take priority measures at all airports to facilitate the arrival and movement of Chinese nationals.

During the briefing, the Prime Minister was informed that enhanced security protocols are already in place in view of potential terrorist threats. Federal and provincial governments are working in close coordination, and Chinese nationals are being provided with dedicated security escorts during travel.

Officials also noted that Safe City projects are under construction nationwide, and all upcoming residential developments will be equipped with surveillance systems meeting international standards.

Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, and other senior officials attended the session.