"Old friend" is a common phrase China’s communist party uses as a tribute to foreigners considered helpful to their interests. It’s also an expression of nostalgia for longtime companions or acquaintances.
Is this real or did they just made it up to make China sound more mysterious and different lol
You should actually look into the origins of the term. It’s been used diplomatically for decades.
afaik the term is used for any long time/old business partners you're on friendly terms with. always used in a very comradely and genuinely thankful demeanor