I am Shah Faisal Khan from Pakistan and a Ph.D. candidate at Southeast University in Nanjing. I have live in China since 2015. Having been here more than four years, I feel China is my second home, as there are many similarities between Chinese and Pakistani culture.

Medical staff from Shanghai busy with their work in Wuhan Jinyintan Hospital. 

[Photo provided by Xinmin Evening News WeChat account]

Since December 2019, the novel coronavirus has infected many people across China and in a few other countries. As soon as the virus was first noticed by the Chinese government, it undertook a national effort to stop its spread, ordering schools, universities and workplaces to remain closed.

Authorities have advised people to stay home, avoid crowded places and not use public transportation. Recently, I have been spending my time in the international student dormitory.

Defeating this virus is the responsibility of everyone; we should all cooperate with the Chinese government and follow the advice of health professionals. China is using its technology, education, research and private sector as it tries to contain the virus.

I first came to China for a master's degree in 2015. I have found it to be a very peaceful country, a place of diverse culture and hospitality. After completion of my master's degree, I decided to continue my studies for a doctorate. And while many foreigners have left China during this time, I decided to stay put and support the country.

China has proven to the world it is a peaceful and successful country. This is a very tough and critical time, and it is important China gets international support to fight the virus. While the challenge may seem great, I support it from the bottom of my heart. I am standing with China at this difficult time, and support its efforts to contain the outbreak.

As a foreign student, the university has looked after us very well, bringing food to our dormitory and providing us with surgical masks for our safety. And the university staff has been fantastic, meeting our needs and keeping our spirits up –– despite many of them being away from their own children.

I want to send my prayers and best wishes to China. I have faith the country’s efforts will overcome this battle and life will return to normal. And together, we will be able to celebrate the success of this nation's efforts.

Stay strong China!

Stay strong Wuhan!

Shah Faisal Khan is a Ph.D. candidate at Southeast University in Nanjing.