In China, Pakistan is officially called 巴基斯坦 (Bā jī sī tàn). This is a direct transliteration of the English name "Pakistan" into Chinese characters.
It's important to note that while this is the official name, there are a few other ways to refer to Pakistan in Chinese:
- 巴国 (Bā guó): This is a shorter and more informal way to say "Pakistan," literally meaning "Pakistan country."
- 巴铁 (Bā tiě): This is a very popular and affectionate nickname for Pakistan, meaning "Iron Brother." It reflects the strong and enduring friendship between China and Pakistan.
Here's why the official name is used in formal contexts:
- Consistency: Using the transliterated name ensures consistency and clarity across official documents, media, and communication.
- International Recognition: The transliteration aligns with the internationally recognized name of the country.
The nickname "Iron Brother" is widely used in informal contexts:
- Symbol of Friendship: This nickname signifies the deep and long-standing friendship between the two countries.
- Cultural Exchange: The term reflects the strong cultural and economic ties between China and Pakistan.
In summary, while the official name is 巴基斯坦 (Bā jī sī tàn), the affectionate nickname 巴铁 (Bā tiě) is commonly used to refer to Pakistan in China, highlighting the strong bond between the two nations.
