ISAS Briefs

The two-day visit of new Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Pakistan (22-23 May) took place during extraordinary times of political transition, following the 11 May general election, from one civilian government to another – the first such change in Pakistan’s troubled political history. In addition to the substance, the visit was significant as part of the first overseas tour by the new Chinese Premier and as the first by a foreign leader after the elections in Pakistan. Setting the tone in a pre-visit interview to a Chinese magazine, Mr Li used a new term “iron brother” for Pakistan. As Pakistan's closest ally, demonstrating "all-weather friendship," China has risen to Pakistan’s support in difficult times.