Operation Azm-e-Istehkaam marks a significant juncture in evolving dynamics of Pak-China relations, encapsulating a strategic alliance rooted in mutual geopolitical interests and shared economic ambitions. Since the onset of CPEC, a mega economic project between Pakistan and China, there have been rising security concerns that have been effecting sustainability of the project along with overall bilateral relationship. Recent suicide attack on five Chinese nationals has been the final nail in the coffin. On June 22, federal government approved national counter terrorism drive to eliminate militancy from the country. Initiated against the backdrop of regional instability and external pressures, this military maneuver underscores Pakistan’s resolve to fortify its national security apparatus.

Pakistan announced a new operation Azam-e-Istehkaam, or Resolve for Stability, to curb terrorist activities in the country as they have hindered developmental projects and created security threats. CPEC projects and workers have been targeted to block its progress. Dasu bus blast in May 2019, Gwader Hotel attack in July 2021 and attack on five Chinese engineers due to suicide car blast recently are security alarm bells. Prime Minister of Pakistan cleared that the operation will be unlike previous operations composing of two main components, kinetic and diplomatic. It will involve efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and build pressure on the Taliban regime to halt the support towards Tehreek e Taliban Pakistan.

Guaranteeing the security of Chinese personnel and project sites has become a challenge for Pakistan. China has been showing reluctance in investment projects due to terror incidents. It has become crucial for Pakistan to ensure security and engage in collaboration. For this purpose, among other aims, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently paid an official visit to China and met President Xi Jinping, Premiere Li Qiang and other officials. He also attended Pakistan-China Economic Forum 2024 in Shenzhen and met with the members of Chinese business community. Concerns regarding stability and security were discussed.

Terrorist attacks on Chinese workers due to militancy have always been a source of discontent in the bilateral ties. Pakistan must improve security and business environment in the country as it is the main factor repelling Chinese investors. Beijing has been investing billions in its projects in Pakistan, however, security challenges for China’s CPEC ambitions have been created due to insurgency and militancy. Taliban and Baluchistan Liberation Army (BLA), insurgent militant groups, having the backings of spoilers and separatists, have attempted attacks many times. This has brought bumps in bilateral relations as progress of joint projects have negatively been effected.

Pakistan has time and again tried to ensure security to Chinese working in Pakistan under CPEC projects. Previously, the government also formed the 34^th Light Infantry-Division, also known as Special Security Division (SSD). It is a 2-star Pakistan Army formation which was raised as a response to major security concerns over how to protect CPEC. Later on, government also deployed 15000 military personnel as a part of SSD and Maritime Security Force (MSF). Despite all these efforts, recent attack in March has once again triggered insecurities in Beijing.

Improved internal security in Pakistan fosters a conducive environment for economic activities, which will directly benefit China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. Operation Azam-e-Istehkaam includes measures to ensure foolproof security for Chinese citizens in Pakistan. This reflects government’s commitment to the safety of foreign nationals in Pakistan. The Central Apex Committee on National Action Plan (NAP), which set in motion this counterterrorism operation, clarified the importance of fight against terrorism for national security. It also presented new standard operating procedures (SOPs), which were issued to relevant departments, for comprehensive security Chinese diaspora. The meeting of ministries has outlined that more efforts should be applied in politico-diplomatic domain, for a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy, to curtail the operational space for terrorists through regional cooperation.

Counterterrorism measures are crucial for regional peace and stability as it promotes regional integration. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), 92% of all fatalities and 86 % of attacks related to terrorism and security forces operations have been recorded in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Baluchistan provinces in the first quarter of 2024. Most of the fatalities included civilians and security forces personnel. This demands that affectivity and efficiency of operation has to be ensured and by learning from past, and mistakes should not be repeated.

Operation Azam e Istefkaam is being criticized and compared with previous operations. Meanwhile, the state has faced a new wave of insurgency and militancy whose malefic agenda is being supported by separatist. Among other consequences, flagship project between Pakistan and China, CPEC is a target. Resultantly, bilateral relations have impacted due to hampered progress of the project.  The operation can be a source of eliminating security challenges and terrorist activities if past mistakes are not repeated. The course of action should be analyzed and calculated to prevent the number of causalities and not shifting away from its purpose.