WORLD
Pakistan sets up 10,000-man force to protect Chinese interests
Baku, February 4, AZERTAC
Islamabad is to set up a special force of around 10,000 designated troops to protect Chinese people and enterprises along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), said China Daily quoting a senior Pakistani diplomat.
Syed Tariq Fatemi, special assistant to the Pakistani prime minister on foreign affairs, revealed the establishment of the force in reply to Beijing's security concerns over its increasing number of citizens in the country involved in more than 210 projects, including 14,000 engineers and technicians.
"We have decided to create a special force of highly trained military people who will be specially equipped and have special organizations in concerned ministries backing them," Fatemi said. "Their task will be to provide the necessary safety and security for Chinese working in Pakistan and the Chinese companies and industries set up there."
The special assistant added that the move demonstrates the Pakistan government's strong commitment and willingness and further steps would be taken if needed.