LAHORE: The government of Punjab has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and protection of Chinese nationals working across the province, unveiling a robust security framework that underscores Pakistan’s dedication to its “iron brother” China.
According to official figures available with The News shared by the Home Department, 2,283 Chinese citizens working in Punjab are being safeguarded by more than 8,724 security personnel drawn from multiple law-enforcement agencies. The comprehensive plan involves the Punjab Police, Elite Force, Rangers, the Special Protection Unit (SPU), and the Pakistan Army’s Special Security Division (SSD). The arrangement is designed to provide multilayered security to Chinese nationals serving on projects, offices, business centres, and residential areas, both under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) umbrella and beyond.
According to data available with The News, at least 330 Chinese experts are currently engaged in major CPEC-related initiatives across Punjab. These include the Sahiwal Coal Power Project which has played a critical role in bridging Pakistan’s energy gap; the Quaid-i-Azam Solar Park in Bahawalpur, one of the largest solar facilities in South Asia; and the 660 KV Matiari-Lahore Transmission Line, a flagship project strengthening Pakistan’s national grid. Additionally, Chinese workers have been involved in the now-completed Lahore Orange Line Metro Train which transformed public transport in the provincial capital.
Beyond the CPEC, hundreds of Chinese professionals are contributing to non-CPEC ventures, including industrial collaborations, private businesses, and technical cooperation programs. Each of these projects, whether in energy, infrastructure, or transport, is covered by layered protection that integrates local police, paramilitary units, and intelligence services. One of the most notable aspects of the Punjab government’s report is the confirmation that not a single attack or violent incident targeting Chinese nationals has been reported in the province. Officials attribute this to proactive planning, close coordination among law-enforcement agencies, and a clear policy direction that places the safety of Chinese nationals at the top of the government priorities.
The Foreign National Security Wing, working under the Home Department, maintains daily monitoring of all security deployments. This constant vigilance has reassured both Chinese citizens and their employers that Punjab remains a safe and secure environment for foreign cooperation.
Chinese professionals themselves have echoed these sentiments. Many describe Punjab as not only secure but also welcoming. “We feel very safe here,” said one of the Chinese. “The presence of security forces around our workplace and residences allows us to focus on our assignments with confidence. The cooperation from the Punjab government has been exemplary.”
Officials in Punjab stress that security arrangements for Chinese nationals are not merely an administrative task but a reflection of Pakistan’s deep-rooted friendship with China. “The CPEC is not just about energy plants, motorways, and infrastructure. It is about building prosperity together, about trust and partnership,” said a senior Home Department official. “Ensuring the safety of Chinese experts is part of our responsibility to our closest ally, and Punjab has set a high standard in this regard.”
The official emphasized that these security efforts highlight the provincial government’s seriousness about sustaining the pace of projects that are vital to both nations. By providing a safe environment, Punjab has contributed to strengthening investor confidence and sustaining the momentum of cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Punjab’s security model can serve as an example for other provinces, particularly in maintaining international confidence and attracting foreign investment. The deployment of thousands of trained personnel, combined with the use of intelligence-based monitoring and inter-agency coordination, has created a reliable system that reassures international partners.
The officials at the Home Department point out that such arrangement not only protect individuals but also safeguard the broader strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. By ensuring security, Punjab has demonstrated that Pakistan values the presence of Chinese professionals and is committed to facilitating their work without interruption.
Members of the Chinese community in Punjab have expressed appreciation for the dedication shown by the provincial government and security agencies.
They note that the peaceful atmosphere and the absence of security incidents reflect Pakistan’s sincerity in protecting its guests. Many Chinese professionals say that the environment allows them to contribute wholeheartedly to development projects that will benefit both nations for decades to come.
A Chinese remarked: “We see how much effort the government is making for our security. It is not just about guards or checkpoints, it is about creating an overall sense of safety. That makes a big difference in our daily lives.”
The Punjab government’s commitment to protecting Chinese nationals is seen as an integral part of strengthening Pakistan-China relations. By ensuring safety and peace, the province has reinforced trust between the two countries and paved the way for continued progress under the CPEC and beyond. In doing so, Punjab has shown that Pakistan and China’s shared vision of prosperity is not only about economic cooperation but also about mutual trust, respect, and protection.