THE recent attack on Chinese engineers in Bisham served as a sobering reminder of the difficulties the government faces in guaranteeing the security of foreign nationals. The investigation committee’s conclusions exposed significant security flaws. The bus was not even bulletproof; it was far from bombproof. Such lapses reveal a widespread indifference to the security of foreign nationals engaged in critical projects in Pakistan. But why is this pattern of carelessness permitted to continue when the Chinese are subjected to frequent attacks? There is no doubting that our security apparatus suffers from a lack of responsibility, coordination, and adherence to established protocols—even though there may not be a straightforward solution.

In March, there were three attacks in a span of one week, all directed at Chinese investments in Pakistan. China has made billion-dollar investments in national projects, and Pakistan-China relations date back almost as far as our country has. Experts identify non-state actors, separatist saboteurs, religious fanaticism, and perceived dangers to traditional values resulting from CPEC construction projects. However, it is ineffective to point the finger at external factors while ignoring internal security vulnerabilities and a dearth of successful counterterrorism tactics. Furthermore, blaming the victims and claiming that they are the ones who are “resentful” of security procedures would not work. It is important to keep in mind that the state’s past of making concessions to extremist organisations like the TTP has only given those with evil intentions more courage.

However, we cannot ignore the reality that the Taliban’s capture of Kabul is accompanied by a notable increase in terror assaults. Separatists in Balochistan quickly claimed those responsible for the incident, even though no one reported the attack in Bisham. Presumably, a foreign hand is being eyed by the security establishment. However, speculation by itself won’t solve our problems. TheIt’s time to reassess how security is conceived and applied in this place. Foreign nationals’ safety must always come first, not only for diplomatic purposes but also for the sake of our economy. Our cordial relationships are only so strong. Before the Chinese decide to rethink their investments here, how long will it take? Since the announcement of the multibillion-dollar CPEC project in 2015, which was hailed as a game-changer for infrastructure, transportation, and power, its inhabitants have suffered from attacks far too often. In addition, it is critical to collaborate with locals on targeted development initiatives, address the underlying causes of extremism, and interact with citizens to allay worries about development projects. Pakistan can only expect to protect its visitors and, by extension, its foreign alliances and national interests, at that point.

The state needs to approach this challenge with seriousness. This entails strengthening CT collaboration and intelligence sharing, making sure security SOPs are strictly followed, and cultivating an accountable culture where failures are quickly handled.