Robust measures to contain coronavirus

Liu Xiaoming welcomes the press

China has taken robust measures to contain the coronavirus outbreak and the panic that is being witnessed in some parts of the world is unnecessary, the Chinese ambassador to the UK told the media last week.

In a press conference at the Chinese embassy in London, Liu Xiaoming reiterated Beijing's commitment to fight the epidemic and ensure that it does not spread beyond the country's borders.

The novel coronavirus, which originated in Wuhan city in Hubei province, has infected over 28,000 people globally and killed more than 560. The vast majority of the victims are from China's mainland.

"Since the outbreak, the Chinese government has taken the most comprehensive and strict prevention and control measures, many of which go far beyond the requirements of the international health regulations.

"By taking these measures, China is safeguarding the safety of life and health of not only the Chinese people, but also people of the whole world."

The Ambassador said President Xi Jinping had mobilised the entire government machinery for the task.

More than 6,000 medical professionals from across China have been deployed in Hubei, including Wuhan. Two specialized medical facilities, Huoshenshan and Leishenshan hospital, were built in ten days and have started to receive and treat the critically ill, according to the ambassador.

Liu stressed Beijing's transparency in sharing the relevant information about the outbreak with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and governments around the world.

He added that China has attached great importance to the safety of foreign nationals in the country by keeping them informed and also helping with evacuation.

The ambassador cautioned against rumours and disproportionate measures like travel and trade restrictions. Urging an objective take on the crisis, Liu criticized biased and "malicious slander and disinformation."

"It is our hope that governments of all countries, including the UK, will understand and support China's efforts, respect the professional advice of the WHO, avoid overreaction, avoid creating panic, and ensure the normal cooperation and exchanges between countries," he added.

CGTN