Shehbaz welcomes Trump’s support for Makkah defe…

China’s long-running copper mining project in Pakistan is facing growing operational challenges as repeated militant attacks in Balochistan disrupt supply routes connected to the mine. The Saindak copper and gold mine, located in Balochistan’s Chagai district, is considered one of China’s oldest mining investments in Pakistan and remains its only major copper interest in the country. Analysts say ongoing security issues have created difficulties for transporting materials and maintaining regular operations. The attacks along key routes have raised concerns about what some analysts describe as an “economic blockade,” potentially affecting the movement of supplies required for mining activities and the shipment of copper produced at the site. Copper is a strategically important commodity for China, which is the world’s largest consumer of the metal due to its extensive manufacturing, energy, and technology industries. Any disruption to supply sources can create concerns for industries dependent on stable copper availability. The Saindak project has long been viewed as an important symbol of Pakistan-China economic cooperation. The mine has contributed to Pakistan’s mineral sector while providing China with access to copper resources. However, security challenges in Balochistan have repeatedly affected development projects and infrastructure networks. The province has witnessed several militant attacks targeting government installations, security forces, and economic projects. Officials and security agencies have increased efforts to protect strategic assets and transportation routes, but continued instability remains a major challenge for investors operating in the region. Experts say maintaining security around mining operations is essential not only for the continuity of the Saindak project but also for attracting future foreign investment in Pakistan’s mineral resources. As global demand for critical minerals continues to rise, the stability of resource-rich regions like Balochistan will remain a key factor in determining the future of mining cooperation between Pakistan and international partners.

Thousands of migrants have returned to Morocco after spending several days in Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta following one of the largest attempted border crossings in the territory’s history. Many migrants said they left because of hunger, exhaustion, and disappointment after finding limited support and few opportunities in Ceuta. Spanish soldiers and Civil Guard officers guided groups of migrants back toward the Moroccan border crossing on Saturday. Many of those returning were young men who appeared physically exhausted after days of wandering through the city with little food or shelter. Some were barefoot, while others carried Red Cross blankets after receiving emergency assistance. Among those returning was 23-year-old Abdel Latif, who said he had hoped to find work and a better future in Europe. He explained that unemployment in Morocco pushed him to attempt the dangerous journey, but he decided to leave Ceuta after struggling to find food and support. The massive influx saw tens of thousands of migrants enter Ceuta over a period of two to three days. Local officials estimated that around 60,000 people reached the enclave, while Spain’s Interior Ministry reported a lower figure. The surge created a major humanitarian and political challenge for Spanish authorities. Many migrants attempted to reach Ceuta by swimming around border barriers in the Mediterranean Sea. Several people collapsed after completing the dangerous crossing, with Red Cross teams providing emergency treatment. At least dozens of migrants reportedly died while attempting to reach the Spanish territory. Spanish officials said that the majority of those who entered Ceuta had already returned to Morocco. Authorities have increased security measures along the maritime border, including the installation of floating barriers to prevent further crossings. Ceuta, home to around 84,000 residents, is one of only two European land borders located in Africa, along with Melilla. The territory has long been a major destination for migrants hoping to enter Europe in search of employment and improved living conditions.   Many migrants said their motivation was driven by economic hardship. Some described difficult working conditions and low wages in Morocco, saying they were searching for stability and better opportunities. Meanwhile, daily life in Ceuta has gradually returned to normal, with shops reopening and traffic resuming after the disruption caused by the migrant surge. However, some residents remain concerned about future migration pressures, while others say security improvements have restored a sense of stability. The latest events have once again highlighted the complex challenges facing Europe and North Africa in managing migration, border security, and humanitarian needs.