A friend in need is a friend indeed

For Ecuador, China is a remote country across the vast Pacific, yet the geographic barriers did not divide them when the South American country was jolted by a deadly earthquake in April.

The 7.8-magnitude quake, which struck the northern Pacific coast of Ecuador, caused heavy loss of human life and property damage. China announced immediately after the quake that it would provide an aid fund of $2 million and $60 million in materials.

During his state visit, which began on Thursday, President Xi Jinping will discuss offering help for Ecuador's rebuilding work, including the construction of hospitals, houses and roads.