Attack targeting Chinese nationals in Pakistan kills two children

At least two children were killed and a Chinese citizen was wounded in a suicide attack in southern Pakistan on Friday, the latest assault targeting Chinese citizens in the country, officials said.

The incident took place in the port city of Gwadar, the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure project where a highway is under construction.

"A vehicle carrying Chinese workers was coming back from the site when it was targeted by a suicide bomber," a senior security official told AFP on the condition of anonymity.

"One Chinese national got wounded while two children who were playing on the roadside were killed," he added.

A police official also confirmed the attack and deaths to AFP, while adding that one more child was critically injured.

The security of Chinese workers has long been an issue of concern in Pakistan, where large numbers are based to supervise and build infrastructure projects.

Chinese-funded projects have sparked resentment, particularly among separatist groups, who say locals see little benefit, with most jobs going to outsiders.

Last month nine Chinese nationals were killed in northwestern Pakistan when a bus carrying a team of engineers, surveyors and mechanical staff was targeted by a suicide bomber.