China asks Pakistan to step up security of its missions, CPEC after Karachi attack
Beijing, Nov 23: A concerned China on Friday asked Pakistan to step up security for thousands of Chinese working on CPEC projects after three heavily-armed gunmen stormed its consulate in Karachi, but said it "highly appreciated" Islamabad's quick response to thwart the attack.
Strongly condemning the attack, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters the gunmen tried to enter the consulate but were repulsed by Pakistani policemen. All the three gunmen and two policemen were killed in the incident, he said.
"The gunmen had not entered the consulate. The crossfire happened outside the consulate general office," he said.
"All Chinese staff and families in the consulate are safe. Pakistan prime minister sent condolence to the consulate general. China strongly condemns the violent attack on diplomatic missions," Geng said.
"We have asked the Pakistani side to take measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and organisations there. At the same time, we mourn for the two policemen killed. We express our sympathy to the families and injured," he said.
