Dear Glet:
It’s been awhile! I hope you are doing well in China. Regarding your friend, “just being there for him” like you wrote is basically all you can do. If his company doesn’t bother you, you can offer him to hang out with you when he feels really down, just so he can be close to someone he likes and feels comfortable with (obviously he likes you and feels comfortable with you and that is why he opened up to you).
Be careful, just in case you need this notice, to not get involved with him romantically!!! It is not a good idea! At best, friends only and take care of yourself first.
anita