Here we see what it means to be friends, not because of but in spite of everything.

We all know that the state of Sudan is a very controversial nation. Its Arab rulers have not treated their Negro people well; and the Jihadist tilt has had unwelcome consequences for the West.

However, China has lived by its maxim, how a people choose to be is an internal matter. For this China has kept to its word. They result is that you can see this genuine welcome:

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-09/01/c_134577696.htm

And it is a welcome that leaves me a little shocked.