Xi Jinping Consoles Severely Affected Countries by "COVID-19" ... "Will Provide Active Support"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Sae-hye] Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his intention to actively support the leaders of countries severely affected by the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

According to the People's Daily on the 15th, President Xi sent messages of consolation to the leaders of South Korea, Italy, and Iran, the countries most severely impacted by the spread of COVID-19, pledging active support.

This marks a complete shift from just a month ago, when China had effectively locked down the entire country due to the COVID-19 outbreak and was requesting other countries to lift restrictions on Chinese nationals entering their borders while receiving international aid.

In his message to President Moon Jae-in, Xi stated, "China and South Korea are friendly countries that help each other and share the same boat," adding, "The Chinese government and people empathize with the difficulties South Korea is currently facing, and China will continue to assist to the best of its ability and support South Korea's quarantine efforts."

He also sent a message of consolation to Italian President Sergio Mattarella, saying, "As Italy is experiencing difficulties, the Chinese government and people are willing to cooperate and provide assistance for epidemic prevention." He emphasized the concept of a "community with a shared future for mankind," which is central to his global leadership, stating that humanity must cooperate as one community to respond to global crises and challenges.

In his message to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Xi explained that China has provided medical supplies and dispatched expert volunteer teams to assist Iran in its COVID-19 prevention efforts. Xi emphasized, "China will strengthen cooperation with Iran in epidemic prevention and assist to the best of its ability," highlighting the traditional friendly relations between China and Iran.

Regarding the rapid spread of COVID-19 in Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, and Germany, Xi also sent messages of consolation to Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the executive branch of the EU, and Charles Michel, President of the European Council, the body of EU member state leaders.

In his message, Xi promised, "China firmly supports Europe's efforts to combat COVID-19 and will actively provide assistance to help Europe overcome this as soon as possible." He added, "China hopes to work with Europe to safeguard global public health security under the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind."