US Unsympathetic as China Fights Epidemic, Foreign Ministry Fights Back

On Jan. 31, a reporter asked Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Hua Chunying the following question: “Currently, while China is doing everything possible to combat the new coronavirus epidemic, some American officials are occasionally issuing unfriendly statements about China. The U.S. Secretary of Commerce stated that the epidemic would help some jobs flow back into the United States. Some U.S. officials also insinuated that China was not cooperating with the United States in its response to the epidemic situation. Today, the U.S. State Department announced that it would raise the travel advisory for China to the highest level, placing it on the same advisory level as Iraq and Afghanistan. The U.S. Secretary of State has even continued to maliciously attack China’s national system. What is China’s response to this?”

Hua responded, “Right now, the Chinese people are fighting back against the epidemic with all their strength. The Chinese government has adopted an attitude of transparency and responsibility, and is promptly releasing information and sharing data with the international community, including the United States. Friends are best found in adversity. Many countries have expressed support and assistance for China’s fight against the epidemic in different ways. In comparison, the United States’ words and actions are not in line with the facts. Moreover, they are inappropriate. The World Health Organization has advised nations to refrain from adopting travel restrictions, but barely after these words were spoken, the U.S. did the very opposite. It has set a very bad example, and has really been too unkind.”

Difficulty is the mother of greatness. The Chinese people have always striven to improve themselves, and possess a deep moral character. We firmly believe that with the strong leadership of the Chinese Communist Party, with the immense advantage of a socialist system with Chinese characteristics, and with the vigorous support of the international community, the mighty people of China can unite as one. With a single will as strong as an impenetrable wall, they can certainly succeed in the fight against the epidemic, overcome all difficulties and dangers on the path ahead, and bring about a great rejuvenation of the Chinese people.