Wednesday, July 14, 2021

"China urges Pakistan to 'severely punish' bus attackers after blast kills 13, including nine Chinese nationals"

AP:

A bus carrying dozens of construction workers fell into a ravine Wednesday in northwest Pakistan after a gas leak in the vehicle caused an explosion, killing at least 13 people including nine Chinese, Pakistani officials said.

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Chinese engineers and construction workers are helping Pakistan build a dam in Kohistan.

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Pakistani officials were still investigating but the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad said in a statement the bus was attacked.

SCMP:

Chinese-funded projects have sparked resentment, particularly among separatist groups, who say locals see little benefit, with most jobs going to outsiders.

In April, the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for a deadly suicide blast at a luxury hotel hosting the Chinese ambassador, who was unhurt, in southwest Balochistan.

The group has recently claimed a string of attacks not only in Pakistan’s restive tribal areas along the Afghanistan border but also in the country’s cities, including the capital Islamabad.