[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Eun-byeol] Chinese President Xi Jinping acknowledged shortcomings in the response to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) and called for improvements in the epidemic prevention and control system. Although he claimed that thorough quarantine measures had yielded positive effects, it appears he is trying to soothe public sentiment amid ongoing criticism of the government's response failures.
According to Xinhua News Agency on the 14th, President Xi stated at the 12th meeting of the Central Committee for Deepening Overall Reform, "We must comprehensively summarize experiences and learn lessons, rigorously address and supplement the shortcomings and deficiencies revealed by COVID-19, and strengthen our weaknesses."
He added, "Based on the present situation, we must scientifically and accurately win the battle of COVID-19 prevention, control, and containment," emphasizing the need for such measures from a long-term perspective.
President Xi further said, "What needs to be continued should be continued, what needs to be improved should be improved, and what needs to be established should be established," urging, "We must improve the major epidemic prevention and control mechanism and perfect the national public health emergency management system."
He also stressed, "Ensuring the life safety and physical health of the people is a significant mission of the Communist Party of China in governing the country."
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