Pakistan: Security increased in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, through Aug. 1 due to visit by Chinese vice premier

Event

Authorities will maintain a heightened security posture in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, through Aug. 1 due to an official visit by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng. The vice premier will meet with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi, among other high-level officials, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The government has declared July 31-Aug. 1 official public holidays in Islamabad. The vice premier will likely visit several prominent government buildings in and near the Red Zone of Islamabad and parts of Rawalpindi and CPEC-related infrastructure sites.

Nearly 3,000 security personnel have been deployed in both cities as a precaution. In the capital, security will be particularly tight from Islamabad International Airport (ISB) to Punjab House and the Red Zone area that houses several prominent government buildings, as well as along routes used by the vice premier's motorcade. Officials may implement enhanced restrictions, including vehicle checks and temporary public movement restrictions. Temporary flight disruptions are possible at ISB as the Lifeng and his entourage depart the country on Aug. 1. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are very likely.

Advice

Confirm business, travel, and transportation arrangements in advance if operating in Islamabad and Rawalpindi through Aug. 1. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the impacted areas. Carry proper identification documents at all times. Heed all official transport and security advisories.