Ahsan says Chinese thrashing cops not a big deal

–Interior minister says Chinese workers playing an important role in Pakistan’s development but they should ‘respect’ Pakistani law

ISLAMABAD: Referring to a recent incident in Khanewal in which Chinese engineers had thrashed policemen, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal on Saturday said the Chinese are ‘guests’ who are in the country for its development.

Speaking to reporters in Islamabad, the interior minister said Chinese workers and engineers are playing a role in the development of Pakistan, but they should also respect the Pakistani law,” the minister said.

“CPEC is an opportunity of the century for Pakistan, he said, adding law should take its course when such incidents take place and they should never impact two countries’ relations.

In reply to a question, he said that a democratic government is going to complete a five-year term for the second time in the country’s history and “it is our duty to ensure peaceful elections and transfer of power”.

“We have to prove to the world that we are a peaceful and democratic nation,” he said.

Commenting on the sit-ins by Tehreek Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), the minister said that such sit-ins are damaging not only the development process but also Pakistan’s image in the world.

It may be noted here that the TLP led by cleric Khadim Rizvi had staged a 20-day sit-in in Islamabad last year which was ended only after the government had agreed to sack its law minister. However, the TLP has once again decided to hold a sit-in against the government for not complying with the terms of the agreement.

Ahsan said some elements were using sensitive religious issues like Khatm-e-Nabuwat for politics. “Making religion a political slogan and using it for elections is not in the interest of the country … It’s like playing with fire and explosives. I would urge all parties to not spread hate against others and let political temperature get out of control,” he said, adding last year’s Faizabad sit-in could have instigated countrywide sectarian violence if it had been allowed to continue for a few more days.