China Holds Pakistan Accountable: Islamabad Urged to Deliver on CPEC Promises Amid Balochistan Security Concerns

Beijing / Islamabad, January 5, 2026: Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, currently on a diplomatic visit to Beijing, faced sharp reminders from Chinese officials regarding Islamabad’s commitments under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). During high-level meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and other senior leaders, Dar was told that Pakistan cannot evade its obligations and must fulfill its long-standing promises.

CPEC Delays and Infrastructure Concerns

China expressed concerns over the slow progress and operational gaps in several flagship CPEC projects, including the Gwadar Port, Gwadar International Airport, and connecting highways. The Gwadar-Sukkur motorway remains incomplete, and the airport has struggled to attract passenger and cargo traffic. Chinese officials highlighted that such delays and inefficiencies are undermining the economic potential of the corridor.

Security Threats Heighten Tensions

Security for Chinese nationals and infrastructure in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was a key topic during the talks. Rising attacks on Chinese personnel and offices in these regions have alarmed Beijing, which stressed that safety concerns must be addressed to ensure smooth operations of CPEC projects.

Regional Stability and Afghanistan Relations

China also urged Pakistan to normalize relations with Afghanistan and reopen trade and border channels, emphasizing that regional connectivity and stability are vital for the success of CPEC. Beijing warned that ongoing tensions with Afghanistan and border closures could jeopardize the corridor’s long-term objectives.

Message from Beijing

Analysts say the meetings signal that China is asserting a firmer stance with Pakistan, expecting Islamabad to deliver on its economic and security commitments. While Pakistan continues to emphasize its “all-weather friendship” with China, the recent discussions underline Beijing’s frustration over delays, operational shortcomings, and rising security risks, particularly in Balochistan.