Chinese Engineers Killed in Karachi Attack Were Involved in Debt Re-profiling Talks with Government: Minister

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb revealed on Tuesday that the Chinese engineers targeted in the Karachi attack were part of a crucial team engaged in discussions with the government regarding the re-profiling of its debt.

“The ones killed were the IPP engineers with whom Energy Minister Awais Leghari and I were negotiating in terms of our request to re-profile our debt and extend maturities, so that we can reduce power tariff and provide relief to the public,” the minister stated in a televised address, expressing condolences to the people and the government of China.

The attack, which occurred near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport on Sunday night, claimed the lives of two Chinese nationals. The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan reported that the attack took place at around 11pm on Sunday and specifically targeted Chinese staff.

Minister Aurangzeb also addressed the economic impact of ongoing strikes and protests, highlighting their detrimental effect on the country’s financial health.

“Such actions cost the country around Rs. 190 billion per day, severely affecting economic growth,” he stated. The minister urged those calling for strikes to consider the broader repercussions and to engage in negotiations as a means to resolve their issues.