Reconsolidation of the “Iron Brothers”; President Arif Alvi Visit to China at the time of China’s biggest Challenge of Global Pandemic COVID-19

Dilshad Begum

President Dr. Arif Alvi left for a two-day official visit to China on the 16th of March to express his solidarity amid the outbreak of coronavirus in China. The two-day (16-17 March) visit was scheduled after an invitation from H.E. Xi Jinping, president of the People’s Republic of China to Dr. Alvi.

Keeping the tradition of supporting each other in times of hardships and challenges, this visit further strengthened the mutual trust and solidarity between the two countries. This visit was particularly significant because of China’s struggle with the global pandemic (COVIT-19). The impression of the visit can be reflected in a tweet by the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying.

Hua wrote: "Once again we prove we are iron brothers sharing weal & woe. China stands with Pakistan,”
He further stated that
"Our iron-clad friendship will be further deepened.”
The tweets show an at most appreciation towards the presidents visit.

The president’s visit was not only valued by the official leaders of China but the general public seemed to appreciate it and shared their sentiments and gratitude through different social media accounts. According to the Associated Press of Pakistan, one of their articles titled “President of Pakistan Alvi starts his journey to China” has grabbed the attention of more than 370,000 readers. It has also received around 6,000 likes and 1,000 comments.

During the two-day visit, both the countries had the opportunity of sharing their views on topics of regional and international matters that were of mutual interest. Both sides emphasized on strengthening the ties between the two countries for the interest of the nations and their people.
They also underlined strengthening the China-Pakistan All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership intended at building a community of common future in the novel age.