China reacts to WHO comment on “no Covid-19”

Bloomberg reported that Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian praised the achievement of the country’s “no Covid-19” approach dependent on the blockade order following comments from WHO Director-General Tedros. Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

“I want to make it clear to everyone that no matter how difficult it is, the Chinese people, the Chinese government always believe in winning the important and arduous battle against Covid-19, put it on control” – Mr. Trieu emphasized.

Last month, Zhao said China’s “no Covid-19” strategy was “in line with the country’s reality and the WHO’s guiding principles”.

Beijing organizes mass Covid-19 testing. Photo: AP

However, on May 10, Mr. Tedros argued that this Chinese strategy was “unsustainable” and “needs change”.

In response, Mr. Zhao told reporters at a regular briefing in Beijing on May 11: “We hope the individual concerned can give an objective and reasonable view on the policy and China’s anti-epidemic process, and at the same time try to understand the truth better, avoid making irresponsible remarks.”

Mr. Tedros’ rare comment caught the attention of the WHO, which has supported China since the SARS-CoV-2 virus was first detected in Wuhan City, Central China more than 2 years ago.

Initially, Tedros praised China’s response, much to the displeasure of then-US President Donald Trump.

Tedros was also one of the world leaders attending the Beijing Winter Olympics earlier this year.

Last week, China’s Politburo Standing Committee said it would “resolutely resist any attempts to distort, question or deny” its policies.