Serving in China and particularly as an ambassador is a dream of every Pakistani diplomat. I am no exception either.

I was serving as Pakistani ambassador to France when I learned about my posting to China. I was overjoyed but also humbled by the challenge and huge responsibility bestowed on me by my government to serve in a country with which we enjoy special and unique relations.

When I shared the news with my wife, who has been a source of strength and motivation throughout my career, she was also elated with the unique opportunity that had come our way to live in a land known for its ancient civilization, rich history, diverse culture and immense contributions in the fields of art, literature, agriculture, industry, science and technology.

Once my agreement was received, we booked a flight with Air China from Paris to Beijing via Tianjin. We reached Beijing on August 1, 2020, and were received by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs' protocol officials and our embassy colleagues. We drove on the Beijing highways and reached the Pakistani Embassy located in the center of the city in Chaoyang District. My journey as Pakistan's ambassador to China had begun.

A group photo of a Pakistani delegation led by Pakistani Ambassador to China Moin ul Haque (sixth left) at the China-Pakistan Friendship Square in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, Nov. 2, 2021. [Photo by Zhang Chang/China News Service]

When I arrived in Beijing, China had successfully battled Coronavirus, and life had returned to normal. Yes, we were required to wear masks and follow certain safety protocols, yet we felt safe and mentally relaxed.

It was during the pandemic that I witnessed firsthand the practical manifestation of the legendary Pakistan-China friendship. Despite their own challenges at home, the Chinese government and the Chinese people were at the forefront to help Pakistan to fight this disease. China was the primary source of personal protective equipment, ventilators, oxygen cylinders and other medical equipment. China was the first country to donate COVID-19 vaccines to Pakistan; in total, more than 160 million doses of vaccines were supplied from China, becoming the mainstay of our inoculation drive and saving the lives of millions of Pakistanis. This is just one example of China's generosity, support and solidarity with the people of Pakistan.