[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of equitable distribution of vaccines to overcome the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and called for the establishment of an international firewall at the G20 virtual summit.
According to the state-run Xinhua News Agency on the 21st, President Xi stated at the G20 virtual meeting held under the theme of "Pandemic Recovery and Growth and Job Restoration," "The current international situation is changing rapidly, and unilateralism and protectionism are widespread," adding, "We must normalize COVID-19 prevention measures while striving for economic recovery and stability."
Regarding COVID-19 prevention, Xi said, "Member countries should cooperate with the World Health Organization (WHO) in COVID vaccine research and distribute vaccines equitably," adding, "Countries must strengthen cooperation in all stages of vaccine development, research, production, and distribution." He emphasized, "We must pursue inclusive development," and stated, "China will support developing countries in their epidemic prevention efforts."
Furthermore, concerning global economic recovery, he urged, "Countries should align with the context of global economic operations and restore global supply chains on the premise of proper COVID-19 prevention," adding, "Policies should be strengthened to facilitate human exchanges such as through fast-track channels."
Additionally, he called for "leveraging the role of the digital economy in the COVID era," stating, "COVID-19 should comprehensively promote contactless economies including new technologies and industries such as 5th generation mobile communications (5G), artificial intelligence (AI), smart cities, new platforms, online education, and remote medical care."
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