Explosion outside Pakistan's biggest airport kills two workers

Pakistani and Chinese officials both stated that a large explosion occurred outside Karachi airport in Pakistan on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two Chinese workers and injuries to at least eight others. Police and the provincial government indicated that a tanker truck exploded outside Pakistan's largest airport.

The Chinese Embassy issued a statement saying that a convoy transporting Chinese employees of the Port Qasim Electric Power Company (private) Limited was attacked at approximately 11:00 PM local time, resulting in the deaths of two Chinese citizens and injuries to one. The statement also mentioned that there were Pakistani casualties. Provincial Interior Minister Zia ul Hassan stated on local television channel Geo that the explosion was an attack targeting foreigners.

Thousands of Chinese workers are employed in Pakistan, most of whom are involved in Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative, which connects South and Central Asia with the Chinese capital. Videos showed cars engulfed in flames and thick smoke billowing from the scene. A large number of troops were deployed to the site, which was cordoned off. The Chinese statement referred to the explosion as a "terrorist attack" and stated that China is cooperating with Pakistan to handle the aftermath.

The statement called for a thorough investigation to punish the perpetrators and reminded Chinese citizens in Pakistan to take safety precautions. "The Chinese Embassy and Consulate General in Pakistan strongly condemn this terrorist attack and express deep condolences to the innocent victims of both countries," the statement said. Deputy Inspector General of the East Zone, Azfar Mahesar, told the media that it appeared to be a tanker truck explosion. "We are determining the nature and cause of the explosion. This will take time," he said. He also added that the injured included police officers.

The Interior Minister and Inspector General also inspected the explosion site, but they did not speak to the media. Rahat Hussain, who works in the Civil Aviation Department, said that the explosion was powerful and shook the airport buildings.