Chinese FM: China is not savior but willing to be friend in need

“China is not a savior, but is willing to be a friend in need and a sincere partner for mutual help in times of difficulties,” Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a press conference while answering a question about China’s assistance to other countries hit by COVID-19 on the sidelines of the second session of the 13th National People’s Congress in Beijing.

“In the fighting against Covid-19, we received assistance and support from across the world. This is something we’ll always cherish and be grateful for. To put into action President Xi Jinping’s vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, we have in the last few months launched the largest global humanitarian operation in the history of China”, he said.

“To date, we have shipped medical supplies to nearly 150 countries and four international organizations to meet their immediate needs. We have held video conferences with experts from over 170 countries to share our proven, quote protocols of diagnosis, treatment, and control without any reservation. We have sent 26 expert teams to 24 countries to provide timely information and in person guidance. Our factories have operated at full capacity to make high quality medical supplies that are much needed around the world, including 56.8 billion surgical masks and 250 million protective gowns.” Wang Yi said.

He explained that the reason why China is willing to help the world is that China is always and ready to help others, “When our friends are in distress, we never sit by and do nothing”.

The minister pointed out that the most important thing that can be learned from COVID-19 is that the life and health of people in different countries have never been so closely connected. “The virus respects no borders or races,” Wang said, adding it poses a challenge to all human beings without distinction.

“It has never been made so clear that all nations live in the same global village and that humanity is in fact a community with a shared future,” Wang Yi said.

The minister also mentioned that the assistance from China may not cover the needs of all affected countries, and some political forces are still suspicious of China’s intention in its aid. “But we have done everything in the open and we have a clear conscience. Nothing we do is out of geopolitical calculation toner mail or in pursuit of economic gains or with any political strains attached. We just have one goal, which is to save as many lives as possible.” Wang Yi said.

Wang Yi added that China has but one goal is to save as many lives as possible. “We have but one belief that is one country’s success does not mean the end of the global pandemic. It’s only when the virus is defeated in all countries can we claim a true victory.”

The minister stressed on the fact that the virus is still raging in many places. “China is not a savior, but we try to be a friend in need, a sincere partner other countries can count on in times of difficulty. We will continue to help the countries in distress to the best of our ability, pursue more international cooperation and fight alongside others. Until final, worldwide victory can be declared against COVID-19.” Wang Yi said.