Mohsin Naqvi, the Interior Minister of Pakistan met with China’s Special Investigation Team on Friday and expressed that his government is determined to pursue those responsible for the Besham terror attack.

This development follows a suicide bombing in Besham, Shangla, which claimed at least six lives, among them five Chinese engineers who were working on the Dasu Dam.

On Tuesday, a vehicle laden with explosives struck a bus that was carrying the victims on the Karakoram Highway near Bisham.

The security czar told the team of investigators from the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad about the investigation progress so far.

On the occasion, measures pertaining to Chinese national protection and security in general were discussed.

The Federal Minister also met with the Chinese Ambassador and provided him an update on the investigation into the Besham case.

The Chinese firms overseeing the operation have temporarily halted civil works at the Dasu Dam and Diamer-Bhasha Dam sites due to concerns about security.

A publication confirmed that 991 Chinese engineers worked on both projects. The local staff was told to remain at home until further instruction.

Nazakat Hassain, GM of Diamer Bhasha Dam DBD (DBD), confirmed the suspension of work by the Chinese firm on the dam. He stated that around 500 Chinese were employed in DBD, but FWO personnel continued to work. Around 6,000 people are involved in the dam construction.

He expressed his hope that in just a few short days the situation will normalise, allowing the Chinese staff to return. Diamer-Bhasha dam would generate 4,800 MW through hydropower.

Asim Rauf, the GM for Mohmand Dam said 250 Chinese workers continue to work at the Mohmand Dam.

The official stated that the Chinese are now working at the site and have expressed satisfaction with the situation.

“A bid to sabotage Pak-China bonding will not succeed”

Lin Jian, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said on Wednesday that attempts to undermine China-Pakistan co-operation would never succeed and Beijing remains committed to its work with Islamabad across various sectors.

Jian said this at a press conference the day following a violent terrorist attack on Chinese citizens in the Shangla District.

The official added that China and Pakistan are strategic partners who work together in all weather conditions. The two nations share a deep-rooted friendship that is based on ironclad principles.

We condemn the act of terror. Our deepest condolences are extended to those who have lost their lives and the families of the deceased. Jian said, “We have already stated our position regarding this incident.”