China is sending its soldiers to Pakistan for a joint military exercise aimed at combating terrorism. This is the first time in five years that China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has deployed troops to Pakistan for such a drill, and it comes in response to a series of deadly terrorist attacks targeting Chinese workers in the region. The attacks have raised serious concerns for the safety of thousands of Chinese workers involved in major projects across Pakistan, including China’s vast $65 billion investment in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Why the Military Exercise Matters
The exercise, called Warrior-VIII, will take place from late November to mid-December. Its focus will be on counter-terrorism tactics, with a special emphasis on live drills that simulate real-life combat situations. These training sessions will include multiple levels of exercises designed to prepare the troops for any threat they might face while safeguarding critical infrastructure and workers.
China has poured billions into Pakistan through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with major investments in energy, transport, and manufacturing projects. But recent terror attacks have put these investments—and the lives of Chinese workers—at risk. In October, two Chinese engineers were killed in a bomb attack while traveling near Karachi. This was just one of several attacks over the past few years, including a deadly bus bombing in 2021 that killed nine Chinese nationals. The rise in violence has forced China to act quickly, prompting both Chinese and Pakistani leaders to prioritize security.
A History of Tension and Terror
The growing threat against Chinese workers has been linked to separatist groups in Pakistan, especially in Balochistan, a resource-rich province where many of the Chinese projects are located. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), one of the largest separatist groups in the area, has openly targeted Chinese investments, accusing Beijing of exploiting the region’s resources. The BLA has even warned that it will continue to attack Chinese interests until their demands for greater independence are met.
In addition to Baloch separatists, Pakistan has also faced attacks from the Pakistani Taliban and other militant groups. These terror factions have become more active, especially after the withdrawal of US and NATO forces from neighboring Afghanistan in 2021, leaving a power vacuum in the region. As of 2024, more than 1,500 people have died in terrorist attacks in Pakistan, making the situation even more dangerous for foreign nationals.
China’s Investment at Stake
The stakes are high for China. The CPEC project, which aims to connect China’s western Xinjiang province to Pakistan’s Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea, is a cornerstone of China’s global economic strategy. By building roads, railways, and ports in Pakistan, China hopes to create a more direct route for trade and avoid the crowded and risky Malacca Strait, which has been a key shipping chokepoint.
However, the ongoing security issues in Pakistan have made it difficult for China to ensure the safety of its workers. Despite these challenges, Beijing is heavily invested in the success of the CPEC, as it will help boost its economic growth and strengthen its influence in the region.
Pakistan, struggling with economic difficulties and rising debts, is equally reliant on Chinese investment. However, the situation has become precarious, as terrorist groups continue to target Chinese projects and workers. To protect these investments, China has repeatedly called on Pakistan to improve security measures, while also offering military support in the form of joint exercises and enhanced cooperation between their armies.
What’s Next for China and Pakistan?
In the wake of the latest attacks, Pakistan’s leadership has promised to step up efforts to protect Chinese nationals. This includes launching a major military operation called Azm-e-Istehkam in Balochistan to restore order and improve security. But with the growing terrorist threat, it remains to be seen whether Pakistan can guarantee the safety of Chinese workers and the success of the CPEC projects.
The Warrior-VIII exercise is just one part of a broader effort by China to secure its interests in Pakistan. As the drills unfold, the world will be watching closely to see whether China’s military presence can help deter future attacks and ensure the safety of its multi-billion-dollar investments in Pakistan.
For China, the outcome of this exercise and the broader security situation in Pakistan will play a crucial role in shaping the future of its Belt and Road Initiative and its relationship with Pakistan. The growing danger to Chinese nationals and investments shows just how high the stakes are in this volatile region.
