Iran Urgently Calms Tensions Amid China’s Backlash
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Steps Forward, "Thankful to China"
[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] Traditional allies Iran and China engaged in a heated exchange on Twitter regarding Chinese statistics related to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The two countries, both part of the anti-American bloc, had recently exchanged masks, medicines, and medical equipment, making this an unusual spectacle.
The incident began with an interview given by the spokesperson of the Iranian Ministry of Health to foreign media. Kianoush Jahanpour, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Health, stated in an interview with Turkey's Anadolu Agency on the 5th, "Although unintentional, it seems China did not accurately disclose the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths," adding, "Chinese researchers said that 'COVID-19 is not more severe than type A influenza,' and other countries believed this."
The local Iranian daily Hamshahri explained, "Iranian health authorities initially stated that COVID-19 was not more dangerous than type A influenza, but spokesperson Jahanpour appears to have clarified this by referencing Chinese research results."
Later, Jahanpour asserted on his Twitter account, "Politics and science should not be mixed. The academic conclusion is that COVID-19 is more dangerous than type A influenza. Iranian researchers have also reached this conclusion, and we trust our researchers."
In response, Changhua, the Chinese ambassador to Iran, tweeted about ten minutes later, "Chinese health authorities hold daily press conferences to disclose information. Spokesperson Jahanpour should read the news carefully before drawing conclusions," rebutting the claim.
Amid their exchange, Abbas Mousavi, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, immediately clarified on Twitter, "The Chinese government and people have led the fight against COVID-19 and generously helped the entire world. China's courage, dedication, and expertise in controlling COVID-19 deserve recognition. Iran is grateful to China for standing together during these difficult times."
Nevertheless, on the morning of the 6th, Jahanpour tweeted, "The Iranian Ministry of Health holds two daily press conferences on COVID-19 for domestic and international media. This policy is rare and especially provides useful information to allies."
Ambassador Chang expressed discomfort, tweeting, "Please also respect China's efforts and the accurate facts presented."
The friction between the two sides concluded on the afternoon of the 6th when Jahanpour posted a message of gratitude on Twitter, saying, "We will not forget China, which helped us during difficult times. China is the country that has helped the Iranian people the most." Ambassador Chang responded, "Friends help each other. Let's fight together."
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