Dr Naseem Baloch Criticizes China’s Influence in Balochistan
UN Human Rights Council Session Highlights
During a side event at the 57th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Dr Naseem Baloch, chairman of the Baloch National Movement, voiced concerns over China’s growing influence in Balochistan. The event was organized by the Tumuku Development Cultural Union and chaired by Fazal Ur Rehman Afridi.
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Concerns
Dr Baloch criticized the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), highlighting its negative impact on Balochistan. He stated that China aims for economic dominance and control over vital maritime routes, with Gwadar being a focal point. Despite its strategic importance, Gwadar faces severe infrastructure issues, lacking basic necessities like clean water and electricity.
Human Rights Violations
Dr Baloch emphasized the human rights violations linked to China’s involvement, noting that CPEC has led to resource exploitation and displacement of villages. He described the ongoing crisis affecting students, activists, and families, particularly women and the elderly, who suffer due to missing relatives.
Militarization and Enforced Disappearances
The militarization of Gwadar was another key point, with residents needing military approval to access their city. Dr Baloch, a survivor of enforced disappearance, highlighted Pakistan’s systematic policy of silencing Baloch aspirations through terror, including extrajudicial killings and torture.
Call for International Action
Dr Baloch called for international attention to human rights abuses in Balochistan, urging accountability for Pakistan’s actions. He demanded an independent investigation and sanctions, emphasizing the struggle for Baloch self-determination and freedom.
Doubts Revealed
Dr Naseem Baloch -: Dr Naseem Baloch is a leader of the Baloch National Movement, which is a group that speaks for the people of Balochistan, a region in Pakistan.
Balochistan -: Balochistan is a large province in Pakistan known for its natural resources like gas and minerals. It is located in the southwestern part of the country.
China’s Influence -: China is a big country that is involved in many projects around the world. In Balochistan, China is working on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is a series of projects to improve trade and infrastructure.
UN Human Rights Council -: The UN Human Rights Council is a group within the United Nations that works to protect and promote human rights around the world. They hold meetings to discuss issues like fairness and justice.
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor -: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a collection of projects aimed at improving trade routes between China and Pakistan. It includes building roads, railways, and ports.
Gwadar -: Gwadar is a port city in Balochistan, Pakistan. It is an important part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor because it is a key location for trade.
Enforced disappearances -: Enforced disappearances refer to situations where people are taken away secretly by authorities or groups, and their whereabouts are kept unknown, often violating their human rights.