China's Public Security Minister arrived in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, Monday on an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

Meng Jianzhu's visit comes as Pakistan's relations with the United States hit a new low over allegations that Islamabad supports the Haqqani terror network and its attacks against U.S. targets in Afghanistan, including this month's assault on the U.S. Embassy in Kabul.

Pakistan's Interior Minister Rehman Malik welcomed his Chinese counterpart, saying “China is always there for us in the most difficult times.”

Meng is scheduled to meet with senior officials, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani.

Pakistan and China are long-time allies, and in recent months Islamabad has grown closer to China as its ties with the United States have deteriorated.