Already thrust to the brink of isolation with grossly distrustful relations with at least two of the major bordering countries and an inflamed superpower breathing down Pakistan’s neck, turbulence in relations with China is something that the nation can do without.
Terrorism that has been instrumental in shattering the security environment, stalling progress, losing foreign investment, severely denting the economy has now – after a decade – become our inescapable identity.
Now, whether the grotesque acts of violence are carried out by Christian or Hindu religious extremists, it has become second nature to start pressing Pakistan for taking action within its tribal areas.
The most recent example of the employment of the same assumption is the claim of the local officials of Kashgar who stressed upon the presence of links between the terrorists and sanctuaries in Pakistan. The perpetrators have also been accused of receiving training, funding and ammunition from Pakistan.
However, our ties with China have proved to be more resilient where such confidence shattering episodes bears no significance at all.
The statement of Mr Ma Zhaoxu, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Minister, says that “China and Pakistan are friendly neighbours and we have developed a healthy cooperation in the anti-terror area” and that “China will continue strengthening cooperation with Pakistan.”
That China has praised Pakistan’s role against terrorism shows that the relation is based upon trust and the realisation of reality where advantage to the aggressor is denied completely.
AYAANA MALIK
Islamabad
