[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] The Chinese government strongly opposed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's statement that "the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) originated in China and spread worldwide."
Prime Minister Abe reportedly made this remark during a press conference with NHK on the 25th.
Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, rebutted Abe's statement at a regular briefing on the 26th, saying, "The issue of the origin of COVID-19 is strictly a scientific matter that requires facts and scientific evidence."
He added, "This issue requires research by scientists and medical experts," emphasizing, "We oppose the politicization of this matter."
Spokesperson Zhao pointed out, "Such actions violate the opinions of the World Health Organization (WHO) and medical experts," and "They go against the joint epidemic prevention efforts and expectations of the international community, including both countries."
He also stated, "Political chaos cannot override scientific judgment," and "Only cooperation and unity can be the ultimate weapon to win the war against infectious diseases."
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