THE targeting and killing of Chinese nationals working in Pakistan have raised serious concerns about both the safety of foreign workers and the impact on long-term development projects, particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These attacks are part of a broader strategy aimed at destabilizing Pakistan’s growth and weakening Pakistan-China relations. Understanding the motives behind these killings, identifying the beneficiaries, and addressing the internal and external forces orchestrating these incidents is essential for securing joint ventures like CPEC and protecting Pakistan’s economic and geopolitical interests.

One of the key motives behind these attacks is to undermine Pakistan’s economic progress. CPEC, a multi-billion-dollar initiative and a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), represents a long-term partnership between China and Pakistan. It promises significant benefits for Pakistan, including infrastructure development, energy projects, and the creation of industrial zones. CPEC has the potential to transform Pakistan into a regional economic hub, a development that some powers find threatening. By targeting Chinese nationals, adversaries aim to disrupt foreign investment, delay CPEC projects, and hinder Pakistan’s economic development.

External forces are believed to play a major role in these attacks. Certain regional and global powers are uncomfortable with China’s expanding influence in South Asia, particularly through its strategic........

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