Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, meets with Pakistani President Arif Alvi at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 17, 2020. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) 

BEIJING -- Top legislator Li Zhanshu said Tuesday that Pakistani President Arif Alvi's visit to China at this special period demonstrated the firm support of Pakistan's government and people for China. 

Li, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, briefed Alvi on the overall situation of China's prevention and control of the COVID-19 epidemic during their meeting in Beijing. 

Li said China's progress in containing the epidemic demonstrated significant advantages of the leadership of the Communist Party of China and socialism with Chinese characteristics. 

He also expressed the confidence in winning the battle against the COVID-19, and maintaining the steady and healthy development of the economy. 

Noting that humanity is a community with a shared future, Li said China will actively support and assist the international community including Pakistan to fight the epidemic. 

Alvi commended China's major progress in curbing the COVID-19, and its great contribution to the global battle against the epidemic. 

He also expressed appreciation for China's assistance and said Pakistan will always stand alongside China to jointly address challenges.