BEIJING: China on Friday extended its support for military operation Raddul Fasaad launched to eliminate the threat of terrorism and extremism across the country besides ensuring security of borders.

“China understands and supports necessary measures taken by Pakistan to consolidate its position in counterterrorism operations, maintain domestic security and stability and safety of its people,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said during a press briefing.

In recent years, Pakistan rigorously made efforts and progressed in fighting terrorism, he added.

Mr Geng expressed his condolences over the loss of innocent lives in the recent terror wave. Referring to the military operation, he said: “We believe with joint efforts of the government, army and people, Pakistan will surely claim victory in its fight against terrorism.”

The Pakistan Army on Feb 22 launched Operation Raddul Fasaad following a wave of terrorism that hit the four provinces, leaving over 100 dead and hundreds of others wounded.

The announcement in this regard was made by the ISPR after Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Bajwa chaired a high-level security meeting in Lahore.

The elimination of residual terrorist threats, the consolidation of gains made during previous counterterrorism operations and tightening security on the borders have been des­cribed as the main objectives of the new operation, which would be joined by the PAF and Navy and paramilitary organisations, civilian law enforcement agencies and intelligence outfits.

Published in Dawn, February 25th, 2017