China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus.

Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty. World over, countries are complaining about unusable Chinese equipment.

In a daily press conference today Indian health officials said that the Chinese kits are not working and&nbsp;that&nbsp;there was a ''huge variation" in the test results.

States have been advised to not use Chinese test kits.&nbsp;&nbsp;India got 6.5 lakh testing kits from China on April 16, supplied by three Chinese companies.

About three lakh of these kits were sent to Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The Rajasthan government went public with its findings today. The state health minister said they were expecting a 90 per cent accuracy. What they got, was more than 94 per cent inaccuracy. Only 5.4 per cent of the Chinese kits give an accurate result. The rest are faulty.

India's ambassador to China&nbsp;Vikram Misri said that he has been coordinating the procurement from China and added India was&nbsp;in touch with China to identify bonafide suppliers. He said that India is getting more supplies from china.

New Delhi has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1000 ventilators. It is a fact that options are limited which is why most countries continue to buy from China despite the poor quality..&nbsp;After today's disclosure, India should re-think its orders from China as supplies from China cannot be trusted. Several countries have complained about China's defective supplies. Spain, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and the United Kingdom have received faulty kits from China.&nbsp;The Netherlands recalled 600 thousand face masks purchased from china.

China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus. Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty.

China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus. Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty. World over, countries are complaining about unusable Chinese equipment. In a daily press conference today Indian health officials said that the Chinese kits are not working and that there was a ''huge variation" in the test results. States have been advised to not use Chinese test kits. India got 6.5 lakh testing kits from China on April 16, supplied by three Chinese companies. About three lakh of these kits were sent to Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The Rajasthan government went public with its findings today. The state health minister said they were expecting a 90 per cent accuracy. What they got, was more than 94 per cent inaccuracy. Only 5.4 per cent of the Chinese kits give an accurate result. The rest are faulty. India's ambassador to China Vikram Misri said that he has been coordinating the procurement from China and added India was in touch with China to identify bonafide suppliers. He said that India is getting more supplies from china. New Delhi has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1000 ventilators. It is a fact that options are limited which is why most countries continue to buy from China despite the poor quality.. After today's disclosure, India should re-think its orders from China as supplies from China cannot be trusted. Several countries have complained about China's defective supplies. Spain, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and the United Kingdom have received faulty kits from China. The Netherlands recalled 600 thousand face masks purchased from china.

China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus

Where did the coronavirus originate? From a wet market or a lab?

There is a fresh twist in this saga now. A Nobel winning scientist from France has kicked up a storm.

Professor Luc Montagnier, who had discovered the HIV virus, says that the&nbsp;virus could have leaked from China's biggest lab in Wuhan.

Montagnier says&nbsp;the Wuhan coronavirus came from a lab in China and man-made.&nbsp;He claims that coronavirus is the result of an attempt to manufacture an AIDs vaccine. The professor specifically names the Wuhan national biosafety laboratory, a&nbsp;facility that china calls Asia's largest virus bank.

These&nbsp;comments have triggered a storm. However,&nbsp;Chinese state media was quick to pick up the statement and trash it.

Yuan Zhiming, director of Wuhan national biosafety laboratory; researcher at Wuhan Institute of Virology said ''because the Wuhan institute of virology and p4 laboratory is in Wuhan, some people can't help making associations, which I think is horrifying. But it's worse when some are deliberately trying to mislead people. U.S. Senator tom cotton said earlier that the virus came from the Wuhan Institute of virology. Then the Washington post and two reporters wrote about the virus coming from the Wuhan lab. They have no evidence, nor any logical relations to make such a claim. It was entirely based on speculation. As a science and technology manager, I have been engaged in laboratory biosafety management and scientific research project management for a long time, and I know it's impossible."

Meanwhile, experts say bats are the most likely source of the Wuhan virus. They believe that this wet market in Wuhan could be the source. Today, there are barricades around the entire market and the Chinese authorities have shut it down.

Professor Montagnier says that Wuhan lab specialized in these viruses since the early 2000s, a&nbsp;claim that has added more fuel to the fire. The American government suspects the Wuhan lab is a possible source too.

Professor Montagnier's statements will give more ammo to America's investigation. But, his claims are being questioned too as his own colleagues have criticized the statement saying it's based on weak scientific evidence.

Clearly, the debate over the source of the coronavirus is far from over.

Where did the coronavirus originate? From a wet market or a lab? There is a fresh twist in this saga now. A Nobel winning scientist from France has kicked up a storm.

Where did the coronavirus originate? From a wet market or a lab? There is a fresh twist in this saga now. A Nobel winning scientist from France has kicked up a storm. Professor Luc Montagnier, who had discovered the HIV virus, says that the virus could have leaked from China's biggest lab in Wuhan. Montagnier says the Wuhan coronavirus came from a lab in China and man-made. He claims that coronavirus is the result of an attempt to manufacture an AIDs vaccine. The professor specifically names the Wuhan national biosafety laboratory, a facility that china calls Asia's largest virus bank. These comments have triggered a storm. However, Chinese state media was quick to pick up the statement and trash it. Yuan Zhiming, director of Wuhan national biosafety laboratory; researcher at Wuhan Institute of Virology said ''because the Wuhan institute of virology and p4 laboratory is in Wuhan, some people can't help making associations, which I think is horrifying. But it's worse when some are deliberately trying to mislead people. U.S. Senator tom cotton said earlier that the virus came from the Wuhan Institute of virology. Then the Washington post and two reporters wrote about the virus coming from the Wuhan lab. They have no evidence, nor any logical relations to make such a claim. It was entirely based on speculation. As a science and technology manager, I have been engaged in laboratory biosafety management and scientific research project management for a long time, and I know it's impossible." Meanwhile, experts say bats are the most likely source of the Wuhan virus. They believe that this wet market in Wuhan could be the source. Today, there are barricades around the entire market and the Chinese authorities have shut it down. Professor Montagnier says that Wuhan lab specialized in these viruses since the early 2000s, a claim that has added more fuel to the fire. The American government suspects the Wuhan lab is a possible source too. Professor Montagnier's statements will give more ammo to America's investigation. But, his claims are being questioned too as his own colleagues have criticized the statement saying it's based on weak scientific evidence. Clearly, the debate over the source of the coronavirus is far from over.

French scientist adds new twist to coronavirus origin mystery

As multiple theories claim that the novel coronavirus originated from laboratory in China, the director of Wuhan Institute of Virology has rejected the claims, calling it "impossible".&nbsp;

In an interview published by state media on Saturday, Yuan Zhiming, director of the institute said that "there's no way this virus came from us". &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-1891-new-coronavirus-deaths-as-hundreds-protest-against-lockdown-293345">US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown</a>

Zhiming also said to CTGN that nobody from his staff had been infected with COVID-19 and added the "whole institute is carrying out research in different areas related to the coronavirus".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-moral-obligation-to-share-coronavirus-data-white-house-293339">China has 'moral obligation' to share coronavirus data: White House</a>

Responding to whether the research suggesting that coronavirus originating from the institute, Zhiming said: "I know it's impossible."

"As people who carry out viral studies we clearly know what kind of research is going on at the institute and how the institute manages viruses and samples," Zhiming said.

Multiple conspiracy theories claimed that COVID-19 came out from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, specifically its P4 laboratory which is equipped to tackle dangerous viruses.

The Wuhan facility director also said that since the P4 laboratory is in Wuhan "people can't help but make associations", but certain media outlets are "deliberately trying to mislead people".

Earlier this week, US began its probe to know whether the virus came out of a virology institute with a high-security biosafety laboratory.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that US officials are doing a "full investigation" into how the COVID-19 "got out into the world".

(With AFP inputs)

As multiple theories claim that the novel coronavirus originated from laboratory in China, the director of Wuhan Institute of Virology has rejected the claims, calling it "impossible".

As multiple theories claim that the novel coronavirus originated from laboratory in China, the director of Wuhan Institute of Virology has rejected the claims, calling it "impossible". In an interview published by state media on Saturday, Yuan Zhiming, director of the institute said that "there's no way this virus came from us". Also read | US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown Zhiming also said to CTGN that nobody from his staff had been infected with COVID-19 and added the "whole institute is carrying out research in different areas related to the coronavirus". Also read | China has 'moral obligation' to share coronavirus data: White House Responding to whether the research suggesting that coronavirus originating from the institute, Zhiming said: "I know it's impossible." "As people who carry out viral studies we clearly know what kind of research is going on at the institute and how the institute manages viruses and samples," Zhiming said. Multiple conspiracy theories claimed that COVID-19 came out from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, specifically its P4 laboratory which is equipped to tackle dangerous viruses. The Wuhan facility director also said that since the P4 laboratory is in Wuhan "people can't help but make associations", but certain media outlets are "deliberately trying to mislead people". Earlier this week, US began its probe to know whether the virus came out of a virology institute with a high-security biosafety laboratory. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that US officials are doing a "full investigation" into how the COVID-19 "got out into the world". (With AFP inputs)

'No way': Wuhan lab director rejects coronavirus origins from its facility

Countries who are struggling to contain COVID-19 earlier complained of faulty testing kits and now sources in the Indian Health Ministry have confirmed too that Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits that were received from China have failed quality tests.&nbsp;

Earlier, Spain, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and Britain were some of the countries that complained of faulty and substandard kits received from China.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-once-chinas-coronavirus-epicentre-raises-death-toll-by-50-293040">Wuhan, once China's coronavirus epicentre raises death toll by 50%</a>

PPE comprises gloves, mask and a gown and is worn by medical personnel for novel coronavirus treatment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-steps-up-procurement-of-testing-ppe-kits-from-abroad-293056">Coronavirus: India steps up procurement of testing, PPE kits from abroad</a>

The sources in the Indian health ministry also said nearly 50,000 testing kits failed quality tests.&nbsp;Georgia earlier wanted to buy rapid coronavirus test kits from China, but, now the country has suspended the agreement.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1/2 China export "defective" masks to the Netherlands? True story about masks purchased by a Dutch procurement agent: the Chinese manufacturer stated clearly that they are non-surgical &amp; the exported customs clearing procedures were also under the name of "non-surgical masks".
— Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_China/status/1245749448841416704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
2/2 Masks of various category offer different levels of protection, for day-to-day use and for medical purposes. Pls Double-check the instructions to make sure that you ordered, paid for and distributed the right ones. Do not use non-surgical masks for surgical purposes.
— Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_China/status/1245749451446054913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Netherlands is planning to return 600,000 face masks purchased from China after the N95 gears were found to not fit properly and filters were not working. China, instead of apologising to the Dutch, blamed them for not reading instructions.&nbsp;

Countries who are struggling to contain COVID-19 earlier complained of faulty testing kits and now sources in the Indian Health Ministry have confirmed too that Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits that were received from China have failed quality tests.

Countries who are struggling to contain COVID-19 earlier complained of faulty testing kits and now sources in the Indian Health Ministry have confirmed too that Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits that were received from China have failed quality tests. Earlier, Spain, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and Britain were some of the countries that complained of faulty and substandard kits received from China. Also read | Wuhan, once China's coronavirus epicentre raises death toll by 50% PPE comprises gloves, mask and a gown and is worn by medical personnel for novel coronavirus treatment. Also read | Coronavirus: India steps up procurement of testing, PPE kits from abroad The sources in the Indian health ministry also said nearly 50,000 testing kits failed quality tests. Georgia earlier wanted to buy rapid coronavirus test kits from China, but, now the country has suspended the agreement. 1/2 China export "defective" masks to the Netherlands? True story about masks purchased by a Dutch procurement agent: the Chinese manufacturer stated clearly that they are non-surgical & the exported customs clearing procedures were also under the name of "non-surgical masks". — Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) April 2, 2020 × 2/2 Masks of various category offer different levels of protection, for day-to-day use and for medical purposes. Pls Double-check the instructions to make sure that you ordered, paid for and distributed the right ones. Do not use non-surgical masks for surgical purposes. — Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) April 2, 2020 × The Netherlands is planning to return 600,000 face masks purchased from China after the N95 gears were found to not fit properly and filters were not working. China, instead of apologising to the Dutch, blamed them for not reading instructions.

Coronavirus: India joins the league of nations that receive faulty kits from China

Legendary musician Paul McCartney has slammed China for allowing the operation of the wet markets in the country. These markets have been in news for most believed that the coronavirus outbreak originated from here. 
 
The wet markets have sparked a global debate since they allow the selling of exotic animals for human consumption, including batswhich the virus is believed to have come from. 
 
While appearing on 'The Howard Stern Show', McCartney called eating bats as 'Medieval'. 
 
"I really hope that this will mean the Chinese government says, 'OK, guys, we have really got to get super hygienic around here.' Let's face it, it is a little bit medieval eating bats," McCartney told host Howard Stern. 
 
The former Beatles star called other high profile personalities to join in and demand for a complete termination of wet markets. 
 
"It's not a stupid idea, it is a very good idea," McCartney said. "They don't need all the people dying. And what's it for? All these medieval practices. They just need to clean up their act. This may lead to it. If this doesn't, I don't know what will... They might as well be letting off atomic bombs because it's affecting the whole world. Whoever is responsible for this is at war with the world and itself." 
 
The musician also compared wet markets to past acceptance of slavery. "They did slavery forever, too, but you have to change things at some point," McCartney said.

&nbsp;

Legendary musician Paul McCartney has slammed China for allowing the operation of the wet markets in the country. These markets have been in news for most believed that the coronavirus outbreak originated from here.

Legendary musician Paul McCartney has slammed China for allowing the operation of the wet markets in the country. These markets have been in news for most believed that the coronavirus outbreak originated from here. The wet markets have sparked a global debate since they allow the selling of exotic animals for human consumption, including batswhich the virus is believed to have come from. While appearing on 'The Howard Stern Show', McCartney called eating bats as 'Medieval'. "I really hope that this will mean the Chinese government says, 'OK, guys, we have really got to get super hygienic around here.' Let's face it, it is a little bit medieval eating bats," McCartney told host Howard Stern. The former Beatles star called other high profile personalities to join in and demand for a complete termination of wet markets. "It's not a stupid idea, it is a very good idea," McCartney said. "They don't need all the people dying. And what's it for? All these medieval practices. They just need to clean up their act. This may lead to it. If this doesn't, I don't know what will... They might as well be letting off atomic bombs because it's affecting the whole world. Whoever is responsible for this is at war with the world and itself." The musician also compared wet markets to past acceptance of slavery. "They did slavery forever, too, but you have to change things at some point," McCartney said.

Paul McCartney slams China for opening wet markets amid coronavirus outbreak

Nigeria&nbsp;on Tuesday condemned as "extremely distressing" and "unacceptable" accounts that Nigerian citizens in China had been maltreated because of the coronavirus pandemic

"There were videos circulating on social media of very disturbing scenes and incidents involving Nigerians in the city of Guangzhou," Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama said during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Zhou Pingjian in his office in Abuja.

Onyeama said it appeared that Nigerians were being discriminated against at hotels and restaurants and being stigmatised as supposed carriers of COVID-19.&nbsp;

"We saw images of Nigerians in the streets with their possessions and this was of course extremely distressing for us at home," he said.

He said the situation&nbsp;was "unacceptable" to&nbsp;Nigeria's government and people, and needed "immediate action" from the Chinese authorities.

The ambassador said Beijing was taking the issues the minister raised "very seriously" and said China would continue to foster cordial ties with&nbsp;Nigeria.

The conversation came after accusations of discrimination in the southern city of Guangzhou linked to the coronavirus pandemic.

Africans there say they have become targets of suspicion and subjected to forced evictions, arbitrary quarantines and mass coronavirus testing, particularly as Beijing steps up its fight against imported infections.

The US fast-food chain McDonald's has apologised over a sign in one of its restaurants in Guangzhou telling black people they were banned from entering.

The African Union on Saturday expressed its "extreme concern" about the situation in Guanghzou and called on Beijing to take immediate corrective measures.&nbsp;

On Sunday, as international pressure mounted, the foreign ministry in Beijing issued a statement saying the country attached "great importance to the life and health of foreign nationals" and rejected all "racist and discriminatory" remarks

The coronavirus which broke out in China last December has infected 343 and claimed 10 lives in&nbsp;Nigeria.

&nbsp;

Nigeria on Tuesday condemned as "extremely distressing" and "unacceptable" accounts that Nigerian citizens in China had been maltreated because of the coronavirus pandemic "There were videos circulating on social media of very disturbing scenes and incidents involving Nigerians in the city of Guangzhou," Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama said during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Zhou Pingjian in his office in Abuja.

Nigeria on Tuesday condemned as "extremely distressing" and "unacceptable" accounts that Nigerian citizens in China had been maltreated because of the coronavirus pandemic "There were videos circulating on social media of very disturbing scenes and incidents involving Nigerians in the city of Guangzhou," Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama said during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Zhou Pingjian in his office in Abuja. Onyeama said it appeared that Nigerians were being discriminated against at hotels and restaurants and being stigmatised as supposed carriers of COVID-19. "We saw images of Nigerians in the streets with their possessions and this was of course extremely distressing for us at home," he said. He said the situation was "unacceptable" to Nigeria's government and people, and needed "immediate action" from the Chinese authorities. The ambassador said Beijing was taking the issues the minister raised "very seriously" and said China would continue to foster cordial ties with Nigeria. The conversation came after accusations of discrimination in the southern city of Guangzhou linked to the coronavirus pandemic. Africans there say they have become targets of suspicion and subjected to forced evictions, arbitrary quarantines and mass coronavirus testing, particularly as Beijing steps up its fight against imported infections. The US fast-food chain McDonald's has apologised over a sign in one of its restaurants in Guangzhou telling black people they were banned from entering. The African Union on Saturday expressed its "extreme concern" about the situation in Guanghzou and called on Beijing to take immediate corrective measures. On Sunday, as international pressure mounted, the foreign ministry in Beijing issued a statement saying the country attached "great importance to the life and health of foreign nationals" and rejected all "racist and discriminatory" remarks The coronavirus which broke out in China last December has infected 343 and claimed 10 lives in Nigeria.

Nigeria says treatment of nationals in China 'unacceptable'

The abrasiveness of China's diplomatic missions is only increasing. Chinese diplomats are bullying and abusing anyone who criticizes their regime. First, it was the Chinese envoy to Nepal. Then the consul general of Kolkata and now the Chinese embassy in Sri Lanka is trying to enforce the dragon's will and narrative. Its actions and words are typical of other Chinese missions as they fall far beyond the scope of diplomatic ambit.

So much so that Twitter decided to temporarily suspend the account of the Chinese embassy in Sri Lanka.

The Chinese embassy in Colombo had an unverified Twitter handle and not many knew about its official status. But this account was repeatedly being accused of using undiplomatic language. It constantly engaged in a heated war of words with several twitter users and trolls...

A few days back, one user asserted that the 'low-class Chinese authoritarianism' had become a curse to the world and the Twitter handle responded&nbsp;'total deaths in china are 3,334 till today, much smaller than your western 'high class' governments. Who are cursed?'

Twitter assumed this was a parody account for its use of unparliamentary language. However, it decided to suspend the account. Afterall, which diplomatic mission speaks like this. Only that they were mistaken. This was indeed the official Twitter account. The Chinese embassy made a &nbsp;'solemn' request for clarification.

It claims that Twitter apologized for its 'systematic mistake' and unsuspended the embassy's account. But it did not&nbsp;end there. Today this embassy decided to preach on Twitter about freedom of speech and following rules. It tweeted 'We believe...If twitter could follow the laws and rules of China... The market might also be opened to them'

Meanwhile, for the third time, the Chinese embassy in New Delhi has slammed 'certain Indian media' for not believing them. They say that Indian media is ignoring the facts that China 'officially released'. They hope that this 'certain media' discards ideological prejudice. And does not ignore 'tinted glasses' the precious time China bought for an international response.&nbsp;

The virus knows no borders. Neither does the dragon's domineering. From corrupting journalists with money to&nbsp;targeting them for not telling the China story well, Beijing is going all out in rewriting the narrative of this pandemic.

The abrasiveness of China's diplomatic missions is only increasing. Chinese diplomats are bullying and abusing anyone who criticizes their regime. First, it was the Chinese envoy to Nepal.

The abrasiveness of China's diplomatic missions is only increasing. Chinese diplomats are bullying and abusing anyone who criticizes their regime. First, it was the Chinese envoy to Nepal. Then the consul general of Kolkata and now the Chinese embassy in Sri Lanka is trying to enforce the dragon's will and narrative. Its actions and words are typical of other Chinese missions as they fall far beyond the scope of diplomatic ambit. So much so that Twitter decided to temporarily suspend the account of the Chinese embassy in Sri Lanka. The Chinese embassy in Colombo had an unverified Twitter handle and not many knew about its official status. But this account was repeatedly being accused of using undiplomatic language. It constantly engaged in a heated war of words with several twitter users and trolls... A few days back, one user asserted that the 'low-class Chinese authoritarianism' had become a curse to the world and the Twitter handle responded 'total deaths in china are 3,334 till today, much smaller than your western 'high class' governments. Who are cursed?' Twitter assumed this was a parody account for its use of unparliamentary language. However, it decided to suspend the account. Afterall, which diplomatic mission speaks like this. Only that they were mistaken. This was indeed the official Twitter account. The Chinese embassy made a 'solemn' request for clarification. It claims that Twitter apologized for its 'systematic mistake' and unsuspended the embassy's account. But it did not end there. Today this embassy decided to preach on Twitter about freedom of speech and following rules. It tweeted 'We believe...If twitter could follow the laws and rules of China... The market might also be opened to them' Meanwhile, for the third time, the Chinese embassy in New Delhi has slammed 'certain Indian media' for not believing them. They say that Indian media is ignoring the facts that China 'officially released'. They hope that this 'certain media' discards ideological prejudice. And does not ignore 'tinted glasses' the precious time China bought for an international response. The virus knows no borders. Neither does the dragon's domineering. From corrupting journalists with money to targeting them for not telling the China story well, Beijing is going all out in rewriting the narrative of this pandemic.

Here is why Chinese diplomats bully and abuse anyone criticises their regime

China is following a tried and tested strategy as traditional ways to win influence are not working.&nbsp;

Beijing now wants to spend its way out of this mess because diplomacy is not working.

Chinese diplomats learnt this the hard way in Germany. On Sunday, a German newspaper reported that Chinese officials tried to influence the government. The newspaper reported about a confidential foreign ministry document which&nbsp;said that senior German officials were "Invited to speak in positive terms".

They wanted Germany to sing praises about China's management of the coronavirus, a&nbsp;request, that was flat out rejected.

Reportedly, Germany's foreign ministry issued a recommendation asking all government departments to reject any such requests.

China's foreign ministry was quick to deny these reports but it has not stopped Beijing's attempt to fix china's international image. The propaganda campaign went into overdrive in march. It began with Xi Jinping speaking to world leaders and promising aid. Soon enough, Beijing dispatched coronavirus supplies to worst-hit countries. The charm offensive backfired as Chinese supplies were faulty.

It all went downhill from here. Instead of deft diplomacy, Chinese diplomats began a stunning counterattack, especially on social media.

First, a Chinese diplomat blamed the US&nbsp;&nbsp;Army for the coronavirus outbreak. However, he backpedalled last week. The Chinese embassy in Brazil traded barbs with Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro's son --- Eduardo. He had blamed China for the coronavirus outbreak. Chinese diplomats were livid. They said Eduardo has contracted a "Mental virus."

The Chinese diplomats tried to use misinformation. They shared a story of Italians --- playing the Chinese national anthem. This video, however, was fake and now, the Chinese seemed to have miffed the Germans. China keeps committing the same mistakes again and again. They have tried this trick before.

Reportedly, a Chinese consulate approached the lawmakers in Wisconsin for a commendation. But, they came back with a resolution of criticism. Reports say that in March, the Chinese consulate had approached the Wisconsin senate president Roger Roth. They had written a resolution --- that of course, praised the communist party. It used words like "Transparent" and "Quick" for china's coronavirus response.

Roger Roth was approached twice. When the first email came, he thought this demand from China was a joke. However, when the request was made for the second time, Roth decided to respond. He put together a resolution --- exposing china. It says that that Chinese people are heirs of one of the greatest civilizations in human history. But for the last 70 years, the country has been held hostage by a brutal and oppressive regime. He meant&nbsp;the communist party.

China is following a tried and tested strategy as traditional ways to win influence are not working. Beijing now wants to spend its way out of this mess because diplomacy is not working.

China is following a tried and tested strategy as traditional ways to win influence are not working. Beijing now wants to spend its way out of this mess because diplomacy is not working. Chinese diplomats learnt this the hard way in Germany. On Sunday, a German newspaper reported that Chinese officials tried to influence the government. The newspaper reported about a confidential foreign ministry document which said that senior German officials were "Invited to speak in positive terms". They wanted Germany to sing praises about China's management of the coronavirus, a request, that was flat out rejected. Reportedly, Germany's foreign ministry issued a recommendation asking all government departments to reject any such requests. China's foreign ministry was quick to deny these reports but it has not stopped Beijing's attempt to fix china's international image. The propaganda campaign went into overdrive in march. It began with Xi Jinping speaking to world leaders and promising aid. Soon enough, Beijing dispatched coronavirus supplies to worst-hit countries. The charm offensive backfired as Chinese supplies were faulty. It all went downhill from here. Instead of deft diplomacy, Chinese diplomats began a stunning counterattack, especially on social media. First, a Chinese diplomat blamed the US Army for the coronavirus outbreak. However, he backpedalled last week. The Chinese embassy in Brazil traded barbs with Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro's son --- Eduardo. He had blamed China for the coronavirus outbreak. Chinese diplomats were livid. They said Eduardo has contracted a "Mental virus." The Chinese diplomats tried to use misinformation. They shared a story of Italians --- playing the Chinese national anthem. This video, however, was fake and now, the Chinese seemed to have miffed the Germans. China keeps committing the same mistakes again and again. They have tried this trick before. Reportedly, a Chinese consulate approached the lawmakers in Wisconsin for a commendation. But, they came back with a resolution of criticism. Reports say that in March, the Chinese consulate had approached the Wisconsin senate president Roger Roth. They had written a resolution --- that of course, praised the communist party. It used words like "Transparent" and "Quick" for china's coronavirus response. Roger Roth was approached twice. When the first email came, he thought this demand from China was a joke. However, when the request was made for the second time, Roth decided to respond. He put together a resolution --- exposing china. It says that that Chinese people are heirs of one of the greatest civilizations in human history. But for the last 70 years, the country has been held hostage by a brutal and oppressive regime. He meant the communist party.

Germany rejects China's request to 'speak in positive terms' about its handling of COVID-19

In order to control the narrative surrounding the novel coronavirus, China has reportedly cracked down on publication of academic research about the origins of the novel coronavirus, reported The Guardian quoting documents published online by Chinese universities appear to show.

Reports suggest that two websites published papers and removed pages referring to new policy required for the academic papers dealing with COVID-19. &nbsp;

Research on the origins of the virus is particularly sensitive and subject to checks by government officials, the notices posted on the websites of Fudan University and the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan) said, according to The Guardian report.&nbsp;

China University of Geosciences (Wuhan) appears to have published and then deleted new requirements that academic papers dealing with the origins of the virus be approved by China’s ministry of science and technology before publication.

The university’s academic committee was expected to first go through the research “with an emphasis on checking the accuracy of the thesis, as well as whether it is suitable for publication,” the regulation said.

“When the checks have been completed, the school should report to the Ministry of Science and Technology [MOST], and it should only be published after it has [also] been checked by MOST,” it said.

Despite its name, the geosciences university announced elsewhere on its website that it was carrying out coronavirus research.

In order to control the narrative surrounding the novel coronavirus, China has reportedly cracked down on publication of academic research about the origins of the novel coronavirus, reported The Guardian quoting documents published online by Chinese universities appear to show.

In order to control the narrative surrounding the novel coronavirus, China has reportedly cracked down on publication of academic research about the origins of the novel coronavirus, reported The Guardian quoting documents published online by Chinese universities appear to show. Reports suggest that two websites published papers and removed pages referring to new policy required for the academic papers dealing with COVID-19. Research on the origins of the virus is particularly sensitive and subject to checks by government officials, the notices posted on the websites of Fudan University and the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan) said, according to The Guardian report. China University of Geosciences (Wuhan) appears to have published and then deleted new requirements that academic papers dealing with the origins of the virus be approved by China’s ministry of science and technology before publication. The university’s academic committee was expected to first go through the research “with an emphasis on checking the accuracy of the thesis, as well as whether it is suitable for publication,” the regulation said. “When the checks have been completed, the school should report to the Ministry of Science and Technology [MOST], and it should only be published after it has [also] been checked by MOST,” it said. Despite its name, the geosciences university announced elsewhere on its website that it was carrying out coronavirus research.

Deleted pages suggest China is cracking down on academic papers pertaining to COVID-19 

US President Donald Trump has fired a fresh salvo at the World Health Organization, accusing its chief of siding with China and "politicising" the coronavirus pandemic while repeating his threat to freeze the UN agency's funding.

Trump's allegation comes a day after the US President threatened to put a "very powerful" hold on US' funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) and criticised it for having "missed the call" in its response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-defends-who-after-trump-coronavirus-jibe-291459" hreflang="en">UN chief defends WHO after Trump coronavirus jibe</a>

Trump slammed the Geneva-based global health agency for its early guidance aimed at countering the international spread of the coronavirus.

The president's fresh allegation comes after WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned against politicisation of COVID-19 and said that such a move will only result in "many more body bags".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-4-lakh-infected-with-coronavirus-in-us-report-291455" hreflang="en">Over 4 lakh infected with coronavirus in US: Report</a>

"If you want to be exploited and if you want to have many more body bags, then you [politicize the virus]. If you don't want many more body bags, then you refrain from politicizing it," Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday.

Hours later at the White House conference, Trump agreed that the COVID-19 should not be politicised, but alleged that the WHO chief was doing exactly that and was siding with China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organisation-urges-coronavirus-unity-after-trump-attack-291437" hreflang="en">World Health Organisation urges coronavirus unity after Trump attack</a>

"When he (Ghebreyesus) says politicizing, he's politicizing. That shouldn't be. We spend USD 450 million last year, hundreds of millions in previous years. And they got to do better than that. They got to do better. When you talk about politics, I can't believe he's talking about politics look at the relationship they have to China," Trump said in response to a question.

"China spends USD 42 million. We spend USD 450 million and everything seems to be China's way. That's not right. It's not fair to us. And honestly, it's not fair to the world," he said.

The United States is reevaluating its funding with respect to the WHO, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters at the White House.

"This is very consistent with what President Trump said since the beginning of his campaign. Organizations have to work," he added.

"They have to deliver the outcomes for which they were intended and we need to make sure that only the WHO but every international organization that we take taxpayer money and give it to them for the benefit of America we need to make sure it is delivering on this taxpayer dollars. The WHO is no different in that respect," the top American diplomat said.

Trump asserted that the WHO had to get its priority right. "I think they have to get their priorities right and their priorities are that everybody has to be treated properly, every country. And it doesn't seem that way,&nbsp;he said.

"It doesn't seem that way so we are going to do study investigation and we are going to make a determination as to what we are doing. In the meantime, we are holding back, we are going very unfair to the United States USD 452 million compared to USD 42 million that is to the World Health Organization. That is not good, that is not good, not fair," he said.

"Not fair at all and other countries as you know also gave very substantially less than the United States and the world WHO got it wrong. I mean they got it very wrong, in many ways they were wrong. They also minimised the threat very strongly and not good," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump has fired a fresh salvo at the World Health Organization, accusing its chief of siding with China and "politicising" the coronavirus pandemic while repeating his threat to freeze the UN agency's funding.

US President Donald Trump has fired a fresh salvo at the World Health Organization, accusing its chief of siding with China and "politicising" the coronavirus pandemic while repeating his threat to freeze the UN agency's funding. Trump's allegation comes a day after the US President threatened to put a "very powerful" hold on US' funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) and criticised it for having "missed the call" in its response to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: UN chief defends WHO after Trump coronavirus jibe Trump slammed the Geneva-based global health agency for its early guidance aimed at countering the international spread of the coronavirus. The president's fresh allegation comes after WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned against politicisation of COVID-19 and said that such a move will only result in "many more body bags". Also read: Over 4 lakh infected with coronavirus in US: Report "If you want to be exploited and if you want to have many more body bags, then you [politicize the virus]. If you don't want many more body bags, then you refrain from politicizing it," Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday. Hours later at the White House conference, Trump agreed that the COVID-19 should not be politicised, but alleged that the WHO chief was doing exactly that and was siding with China. Also read: World Health Organisation urges coronavirus unity after Trump attack "When he (Ghebreyesus) says politicizing, he's politicizing. That shouldn't be. We spend USD 450 million last year, hundreds of millions in previous years. And they got to do better than that. They got to do better. When you talk about politics, I can't believe he's talking about politics look at the relationship they have to China," Trump said in response to a question. "China spends USD 42 million. We spend USD 450 million and everything seems to be China's way. That's not right. It's not fair to us. And honestly, it's not fair to the world," he said. The United States is reevaluating its funding with respect to the WHO, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters at the White House. "This is very consistent with what President Trump said since the beginning of his campaign. Organizations have to work," he added. "They have to deliver the outcomes for which they were intended and we need to make sure that only the WHO but every international organization that we take taxpayer money and give it to them for the benefit of America we need to make sure it is delivering on this taxpayer dollars. The WHO is no different in that respect," the top American diplomat said. Trump asserted that the WHO had to get its priority right. "I think they have to get their priorities right and their priorities are that everybody has to be treated properly, every country. And it doesn't seem that way, he said. "It doesn't seem that way so we are going to do study investigation and we are going to make a determination as to what we are doing. In the meantime, we are holding back, we are going very unfair to the United States USD 452 million compared to USD 42 million that is to the World Health Organization. That is not good, that is not good, not fair," he said. "Not fair at all and other countries as you know also gave very substantially less than the United States and the world WHO got it wrong. I mean they got it very wrong, in many ways they were wrong. They also minimised the threat very strongly and not good," Trump said.

WHO chief 'politicising' COVID-19 pandemic, siding with China: Trump

As the United Nations Security Council finally moves ahead in the right direction, the Chinese regime is trying to stream-line its domain of influence. Beijing's entire focus has now shifted to a body that claims to be irreplaceable when it comes to health emergencies.

The World Health Organisation and it's non-partisan Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has been reluctant to criticise China but it just took him 24 hours to hit back at the United States after Trump threatened the WHO.

The WHO chief said &nbsp;'if you don't want more body bags --- refrain from politicizing the issue'. &nbsp;He talks about serving humanity yet&nbsp;his actions speak otherwise. The WHO is still serving Chinese interests. Money's got nothing to do with it.

Beijing has expanded its influence at the health body with a different yet equally enticing tool -- traditional Chinese medicine, a weapon to keep the WHO&nbsp;under its grip.

Reports say China lobbied at the WHO to promote traditional Chinese medicine for the longest time and in April 2019, the WHO offered an endorsement of traditional Chinese medicine. The report talks about the inclusion of Chinese medicine in WHO 11th publication on the international classification of diseases (ICD)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The report says 'historically, traditional Chinese medicine was excluded from the ICD&nbsp;system but ncluding it in the ICD-11 is a milestone. 'Global extension of traditional Chinese medicine with multiple western medicine based disciplines will benefit people all over the world'. WHO ignored the concerns of animal rights activists in doing so. Activists complained that this move would contribute to a surge in illegal trafficking of wildlife whose parts are used in Chinese remedies. Reports were carried by nature research journals condemning WHO &nbsp;move but they too were ignored.

Now China is trying to promote traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of coronavirus. President Xi Jinping himself has praised it as a 'treasure' of Chinese civilisation.

The Chinese government&nbsp;says that thousands of patients in the country are being cured by this so-called treasure and helping China promote this treasure is the world health body.

As the United Nations Security Council finally moves ahead in the right direction, the Chinese regime is trying to stream-line its domain of influence. Beijing's entire focus has now shifted to a body that claims to be irreplaceable when it comes to health emergencies.

As the United Nations Security Council finally moves ahead in the right direction, the Chinese regime is trying to stream-line its domain of influence. Beijing's entire focus has now shifted to a body that claims to be irreplaceable when it comes to health emergencies. The World Health Organisation and it's non-partisan Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has been reluctant to criticise China but it just took him 24 hours to hit back at the United States after Trump threatened the WHO. The WHO chief said 'if you don't want more body bags --- refrain from politicizing the issue'. He talks about serving humanity yet his actions speak otherwise. The WHO is still serving Chinese interests. Money's got nothing to do with it. Beijing has expanded its influence at the health body with a different yet equally enticing tool -- traditional Chinese medicine, a weapon to keep the WHO under its grip. Reports say China lobbied at the WHO to promote traditional Chinese medicine for the longest time and in April 2019, the WHO offered an endorsement of traditional Chinese medicine. The report talks about the inclusion of Chinese medicine in WHO 11th publication on the international classification of diseases (ICD) The report says 'historically, traditional Chinese medicine was excluded from the ICD system but ncluding it in the ICD-11 is a milestone. 'Global extension of traditional Chinese medicine with multiple western medicine based disciplines will benefit people all over the world'. WHO ignored the concerns of animal rights activists in doing so. Activists complained that this move would contribute to a surge in illegal trafficking of wildlife whose parts are used in Chinese remedies. Reports were carried by nature research journals condemning WHO move but they too were ignored. Now China is trying to promote traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of coronavirus. President Xi Jinping himself has praised it as a 'treasure' of Chinese civilisation. The Chinese government says that thousands of patients in the country are being cured by this so-called treasure and helping China promote this treasure is the world health body.

WHO's endorsement of traditional Chinese medicine draw flak

The world is busy counting the dead and the country that exported this deadly virus is busy wiping evidence. First, a cover-up then clean-up. China is destroying evidence and silencing critics. It destroyed the first coronavirus test samples. Wiped the Wuhan wet markets clean and is now punishing critics at home.

China is still muzzling voices of those who ask questions especially those, who dare to speak against President Xi Jinping.

Three Chinese citizens who dared to speak out against the mighty communist party are now facing the wrath of the dragon.

&nbsp;The first one is a property tycoon Ren Zhi-Qiang. Ren wrote against President Xi and disappeared last month. He has resurfaced in the headlines now. The Chinese state says that ren is under investigation.

The second person in our story is Xu Zhi-Yong. Xu, a scholar and an activist, was arrested in February. Xu had demanded Xi's resignation after the coronavirus outbreak.

The third person on our list has proved to be more embarrassing for Beijing. The govt can dismiss criticism from regular citizens but what happens when one of your own speaks out. Fu &nbsp;Ying, a woman, is not just another Chinese citizen. Ying was vice foreign minister of China until 2013. She still holds a very senior post in the communist party as chairperson of the foreign affairs committee. Fu is unhappy with Beijing's combative diplomacy.

These are three individuals in a country of 140 crore people who have shown the courage to speak out. In a country where criticizing the government is a crime, they have done it.

Ren Zhi-Qiang is a former real estate executive and a longtime member of the communist party. Ren enjoys a large following on Chinese social media. After the coronavirus outbreak, he wrote an essay that went viral. The piece is a scathing criticism of the Chinese president. It called Xi a "Power-hungry clown" and hit out at the communist party for the censorship of the media.&nbsp;

Ren said that the curbs on free speech have exacerbated the epidemic. He is being punished for speaking his mind. Ren disappeared last month. Now china says he is under investigation. He is accused of "Serious violations of discipline and law". He violated the unspoken rule in china-- you cannot criticise xi Jinping.&nbsp;

China has always been harsh with critics but this level of brazenness when the whole world is watching it, only shows how nervous it is about the growing criticism at home and abroad. After Wuhan was locked down, xu, a prominent activist, began asking questions. He pointed out lapses and demanded Xi's resignation. He was promptly detained and has been missing since. This is the pattern for the critics at home.

Similarly, China has unleashed diplomats to deal with people questioning the government outside the country. They're trying to control the narrative by spreading misinformation. They send aid and buy silence.&nbsp;

This aggressive campaign has created divisions within the communist party.

Meanwhile, &nbsp;Fu Ying, the former vice foreign minister writing for the state mouthpiece People's Daily, she said: "Words need to be supported by high-quality content".

"We must put forth a true, three-dimensional, and comprehensive picture of China to the international society." These words are a clear reprimand to china's new age and combative diplomats. Better known as Twitter warriors on the internet. The message for China is clear

It can silence millions but will still be exposed by a few.

The world is busy counting the dead and the country that exported this deadly virus is busy wiping evidence. First, a cover-up then clean-up. China is destroying evidence and silencing critics.

The world is busy counting the dead and the country that exported this deadly virus is busy wiping evidence. First, a cover-up then clean-up. China is destroying evidence and silencing critics. It destroyed the first coronavirus test samples. Wiped the Wuhan wet markets clean and is now punishing critics at home. China is still muzzling voices of those who ask questions especially those, who dare to speak against President Xi Jinping. Three Chinese citizens who dared to speak out against the mighty communist party are now facing the wrath of the dragon. The first one is a property tycoon Ren Zhi-Qiang. Ren wrote against President Xi and disappeared last month. He has resurfaced in the headlines now. The Chinese state says that ren is under investigation. The second person in our story is Xu Zhi-Yong. Xu, a scholar and an activist, was arrested in February. Xu had demanded Xi's resignation after the coronavirus outbreak. The third person on our list has proved to be more embarrassing for Beijing. The govt can dismiss criticism from regular citizens but what happens when one of your own speaks out. Fu Ying, a woman, is not just another Chinese citizen. Ying was vice foreign minister of China until 2013. She still holds a very senior post in the communist party as chairperson of the foreign affairs committee. Fu is unhappy with Beijing's combative diplomacy. These are three individuals in a country of 140 crore people who have shown the courage to speak out. In a country where criticizing the government is a crime, they have done it. Ren Zhi-Qiang is a former real estate executive and a longtime member of the communist party. Ren enjoys a large following on Chinese social media. After the coronavirus outbreak, he wrote an essay that went viral. The piece is a scathing criticism of the Chinese president. It called Xi a "Power-hungry clown" and hit out at the communist party for the censorship of the media. Ren said that the curbs on free speech have exacerbated the epidemic. He is being punished for speaking his mind. Ren disappeared last month. Now china says he is under investigation. He is accused of "Serious violations of discipline and law". He violated the unspoken rule in china-- you cannot criticise xi Jinping. China has always been harsh with critics but this level of brazenness when the whole world is watching it, only shows how nervous it is about the growing criticism at home and abroad. After Wuhan was locked down, xu, a prominent activist, began asking questions. He pointed out lapses and demanded Xi's resignation. He was promptly detained and has been missing since. This is the pattern for the critics at home. Similarly, China has unleashed diplomats to deal with people questioning the government outside the country. They're trying to control the narrative by spreading misinformation. They send aid and buy silence. This aggressive campaign has created divisions within the communist party. Meanwhile, Fu Ying, the former vice foreign minister writing for the state mouthpiece People's Daily, she said: "Words need to be supported by high-quality content". "We must put forth a true, three-dimensional, and comprehensive picture of China to the international society." These words are a clear reprimand to china's new age and combative diplomats. Better known as Twitter warriors on the internet. The message for China is clear It can silence millions but will still be exposed by a few.

How China is muzzling voices that speak against President Xi Jinping

Reams are being written about Chinese aid to the world but most of it turned out to be substandard. But here's an island that isn't getting its due -- &nbsp;Taiwan, a country of just 24 million people.

Taiwan is successfully battling the pandemic and helping millions of others to fight. The country is donating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-no-new-coronavirus-deaths-for-first-time-291187">10 million face masks </a>to the world including the US, Spain, Italy and France.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's message to the world is one of solidarity, one that china doesn't appreciate.&nbsp;

When asked about Taiwan's aid, china shot back. Beijing's foreign ministry said they too were donating medical supplies. Sure they were. But here's the difference. Unlike Chinese supplies, aid from Taiwan met quality standards.&nbsp;

Taiwan and China is a David and Goliath story. Taiwan is a tiny island facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-a-half-million-americans-could-die-top-advisor-peter-navarro-warned-trump-291157">mighty China</a> and yet, it is winning the fight against the Wuhan virus much better than China.

&nbsp;In early January, China was scrambling to conceal the coronavirus outbreak. Taiwan, on the other hand, was moving quickly to respond to a potential threat. Taiwan confirmed its first positive case in January and immediately began screening passengers from Wuhan. China was struggling.

The world's second-largest economy had to accept aid from various countries and institutions. Taiwan, on the other hand, had no assistance. It was barred from the world health organisation.&nbsp;

Taiwan deployed its military to help manufacture masks. Today, Taiwan is producing 13 million masks per day. The island is also helping some of the world's richest nation. Taiwan was among the most vulnerable regions outside of China, given its proximity, ties and transport link. But Taiwan has just 376 positive cases of coronavirus and five deaths.

Taiwan has been immensely successful in containing the Wuhan virus. When China was spreading fake news, Taiwan was announcing punishment for spreading disinformation.

When china was pointing fingers at other countries, Taiwan's doctors were collaborating with hospitals across continents. When China was trying to unleash a patent war, Taiwan was offering to work with the US and Europe to develop a vaccine.

Today, China wants the world to believe that autocracies can best combat a pandemic but Taiwan, with its rapid response and transparency, has set a textbook example for every democracy.

Is the WHO listening?

Reams are being written about Chinese aid to the world but most of it turned out to be substandard. But here's an island that isn't getting its due -- Taiwan, a country of just 24 million people.

Reams are being written about Chinese aid to the world but most of it turned out to be substandard. But here's an island that isn't getting its due -- Taiwan, a country of just 24 million people. Taiwan is successfully battling the pandemic and helping millions of others to fight. The country is donating 10 million face masks to the world including the US, Spain, Italy and France. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's message to the world is one of solidarity, one that china doesn't appreciate. When asked about Taiwan's aid, china shot back. Beijing's foreign ministry said they too were donating medical supplies. Sure they were. But here's the difference. Unlike Chinese supplies, aid from Taiwan met quality standards. Taiwan and China is a David and Goliath story. Taiwan is a tiny island facing mighty China and yet, it is winning the fight against the Wuhan virus much better than China. In early January, China was scrambling to conceal the coronavirus outbreak. Taiwan, on the other hand, was moving quickly to respond to a potential threat. Taiwan confirmed its first positive case in January and immediately began screening passengers from Wuhan. China was struggling. The world's second-largest economy had to accept aid from various countries and institutions. Taiwan, on the other hand, had no assistance. It was barred from the world health organisation. Taiwan deployed its military to help manufacture masks. Today, Taiwan is producing 13 million masks per day. The island is also helping some of the world's richest nation. Taiwan was among the most vulnerable regions outside of China, given its proximity, ties and transport link. But Taiwan has just 376 positive cases of coronavirus and five deaths. Taiwan has been immensely successful in containing the Wuhan virus. When China was spreading fake news, Taiwan was announcing punishment for spreading disinformation. When china was pointing fingers at other countries, Taiwan's doctors were collaborating with hospitals across continents. When China was trying to unleash a patent war, Taiwan was offering to work with the US and Europe to develop a vaccine. Today, China wants the world to believe that autocracies can best combat a pandemic but Taiwan, with its rapid response and transparency, has set a textbook example for every democracy. Is the WHO listening?

How 'David' Taiwan triumphed over 'Goliath' China in COVID-19 fight 

As millions of Chinese residents stepped out of their houses after weeks of lockdown, their freedom of movement is largely dependent on phone apps, according to a report.

The “health code” service developed for the Chinese government gives users colour-coded designations based on their health status and travel history and a QR code that can be scanned by authorities, the report added.

The apps are specific to each city or province, but generally, people given a green code are allowed to travel relatively freely.&nbsp;

A yellow code indicates that the holder should be in-home isolation, and a red code says the user is a confirmed Covid-19 patient and should be in quarantine.

The Chinese authorities used the apps to track the movement of people in coronavirus affected areas.&nbsp;When the lockdown restrictions in Hubei province were lifted last week, the government allowed residents with a green code to travel within and out of the province.

Some restaurants, shops, hotels and other establishments ask for patrons to show their codes before entering. In Wuhan, only those with a green health code are allowed to take public transport.

However, technology has raised concerns about their reach into people’s private lives and data.

There have been complaints by Chinese social media users about a lack of transparency over how the app works and what data it is storing.

Some have even reported being unable to change erroneous “red” designations, and questioned the reliance on internet connection and surveillance.

As millions of Chinese residents stepped out of their houses after weeks of lockdown, their freedom of movement is largely dependent on phone apps, according to a report.

As millions of Chinese residents stepped out of their houses after weeks of lockdown, their freedom of movement is largely dependent on phone apps, according to a report. The “health code” service developed for the Chinese government gives users colour-coded designations based on their health status and travel history and a QR code that can be scanned by authorities, the report added. The apps are specific to each city or province, but generally, people given a green code are allowed to travel relatively freely. A yellow code indicates that the holder should be in-home isolation, and a red code says the user is a confirmed Covid-19 patient and should be in quarantine. The Chinese authorities used the apps to track the movement of people in coronavirus affected areas. When the lockdown restrictions in Hubei province were lifted last week, the government allowed residents with a green code to travel within and out of the province. Some restaurants, shops, hotels and other establishments ask for patrons to show their codes before entering. In Wuhan, only those with a green health code are allowed to take public transport. However, technology has raised concerns about their reach into people’s private lives and data. There have been complaints by Chinese social media users about a lack of transparency over how the app works and what data it is storing. Some have even reported being unable to change erroneous “red” designations, and questioned the reliance on internet connection and surveillance.

Privacy concerns raised over Chinese health code apps 

The government of China has sent a special plane to Pakistan with a team of medical professionals and relief assistance to fight COVID-19. The flight will land at Islamabad International Airport today, according to a press release.

The government of China has sent a special plane to Pakistan with a team of medical professionals and relief assistance to fight COVID-19. The flight will land at Islamabad International Airport today, according to a press release. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood will be at the airport to welcome the Chinese medical experts and to express their gratitude to the government and people of China. It may be recalled that China is extending full support to Pakistan in its efforts to contain the Coronavirus. China’s assistance to Pakistan so far includes 12,000 test kits, 3,00,000 masks, 10,000 protective suits, and support to build an isolation hospital. A considerable amount of donations from private sources from China has also arrived in Pakistan. Alibaba Foundation and Jack Ma Foundation have donated 50,000 test kits and 5,00,000 face masks. China also handed over two tons of masks, test kits, ventilators, medical protective clothes through Khunjerab.

COVID-19: China sends special plane to Pakistan with doctors and relief aid

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday urged G20 countries to remove trade barriers in an effort to spur a global recovery after the economic shock of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

"Xi urged G20 members to cut tariffs, remove barriers and facilitate the unfettered flow of trade" during his remarks at the emergency online summit, the official Xinhua news agency reported.&nbsp;

China has been hit hard by the COVID-19 outbreak since it emerged in the country late last year, with more than 80,000 infected and nearly 3,300 dead nationwide, according to official figures.&nbsp;

The world's second-largest economy ground to a halt in February as authorities shut factories and imposed drastic lockdowns to curb the spread of the disease.

Economic growth had already slowed as a result of the long-running trade war with the United States that saw billions of dollars in tariffs slapped on trade between the two countries.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday urged G20 countries to remove trade barriers in an effort to spur a global recovery after the economic shock of the coronavirus pandemic.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday urged G20 countries to remove trade barriers in an effort to spur a global recovery after the economic shock of the coronavirus pandemic. "Xi urged G20 members to cut tariffs, remove barriers and facilitate the unfettered flow of trade" during his remarks at the emergency online summit, the official Xinhua news agency reported. China has been hit hard by the COVID-19 outbreak since it emerged in the country late last year, with more than 80,000 infected and nearly 3,300 dead nationwide, according to official figures. The world's second-largest economy ground to a halt in February as authorities shut factories and imposed drastic lockdowns to curb the spread of the disease. Economic growth had already slowed as a result of the long-running trade war with the United States that saw billions of dollars in tariffs slapped on trade between the two countries.

China's Xi calls for tariff cuts at G20 virus talks

Apple is closing all of its stores outside China until March 27 in a bid to slow the spread of the coronavirus outbreak, CEO Tim Cook said. Cook said the firm had learned from steps taken in China, where the tech giant has just reopened its retail stores.

Apple is closing all of its stores outside China until March 27 in a bid to slow the spread of the coronavirus outbreak, CEO Tim Cook said. Cook said the firm had learned from steps taken in China, where the tech giant has just reopened its retail stores. "One of those lessons is that the most effective way to minimize risk of the virus's transmission is to reduce density and maximize social distance," he said in a statement late Friday. "As rates of new infections continue to grow in other places, we're taking additional steps to protect our team members and customers." Apple's online store would remain open but office staff outside China would be working remotely if possible, Cook added. The California-based firm has about 500 stores in 24 countries around the world. Despite the closures, Cook said hourly workers would continue to be paid as normal. The CEO said Apple had expanded its leave policy "to accommodate personal or family health circumstances created by COVID-19" including caring for a sick loved one, mandatory quarantine or childcare due to school closures. Apple has also donated $15 million to help the fight against the pandemic and will be matching employee donations two-to-one. "The global spread of COVID-19 is affecting every one of us," Cook said. He ended his statement thanking "the heroic first responders, doctors, nurses, researchers, public health experts and public servants" around the world fighting the pandemic. All of Apple's 42 stores in China have reopened after being closed since February 1 as the epidemic rapidly spread there. The shops have been gradually returning to business in the past few days and the last ones reopened on Friday as China slowly resumes work. Mass quarantines had forced factories to suspend operations and shops to shut. Apple, which depends on components from Chinese suppliers and has a big market in China, was hammered on both fronts. Last month, Apple said it would miss its second quarter revenue forecast and global iPhone supplies would fall because of the epidemic. The firm had forecast revenue of $63-$67 billion for January-March, but did not disclose how much it expected revenue to fall.

Apple closing all stores outside China until March 27 due to coronavirus

As the world grapples and fights, India has emerged as a leader. India is not just working on its domestic response but leading a global effort.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed that SAARC nations should work together to fight the coronavirus. He suggested that the bloc should unite to create a strong strategy. The Prime Minister invited SAARC leaders to join him in a video conference.

The idea is to discuss a coordinated response to the coronavirus outbreak. It's been the hallmark of India's response to the coronavirus outbreak so far.

Since the first cases were reported, India has played a constructive role. India was among the few countries to complete successful rescue missions from the epicentre of the outbreak - Wuhan.

The flights, initially meant to bring back Indian citizens, became a vehicle to expand regional cooperation. India rescued citizens from the neighbourhood. It sent 15 tonnes of medical supplies to China.

When the crisis peaked - India lifted the ban on the export of personal protection equipment, items like surgical and disposable masks and gloves, supplies that China was running short on due to the outbreak - it was a strong expression of solidarity towards a crisis hit partner.

And now, New Delhi has made an overture to SAARC nations. It's a move that could breathe new life into this forum. India has an important role to play in the new world order&nbsp;and South Asia remains one of the least integrated regions in the world.

New Delhi could use this opportunity to revive a platform, using its diplomatic heft. SAARC needs to work together to battle this pandemic. The World Bank and the WHO published a report together in 2019. It predicted that a coronavirus like outbreak will cost South Asia's GDP 53 billion dollars. A loss that none of the South Asian countries can afford today.

SAARC is perhaps the only alliance that truly represents South Asia. It has eight nations as its members - India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the Maldives.

The same countries also face several public health challenges. Just India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka represent around one-fifth of the world's population. The region needs substantial resources and efficient health systems to battle the coronavirus.

That's the reason why India's efforts to unite the bloc must be applauded.

Britain's exit from the European Union (EU) is one such instance. America's decision to scrap the trans-pacific partnership was another setback. But, if India can manage a SAARC front, it might provide a new template to the world to fight the coronavirus. 
 
India's move to bring neighbours together is an example for the whole world.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

 
&nbsp;

As the world grapples and fights, India has emerged as a leader. India is not just working on its domestic response but leading a global effort. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed that SAARC nations should work together to fight the coronavirus.

As the world grapples and fights, India has emerged as a leader. India is not just working on its domestic response but leading a global effort. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed that SAARC nations should work together to fight the coronavirus. He suggested that the bloc should unite to create a strong strategy. The Prime Minister invited SAARC leaders to join him in a video conference. The idea is to discuss a coordinated response to the coronavirus outbreak. It's been the hallmark of India's response to the coronavirus outbreak so far. Since the first cases were reported, India has played a constructive role. India was among the few countries to complete successful rescue missions from the epicentre of the outbreak - Wuhan. The flights, initially meant to bring back Indian citizens, became a vehicle to expand regional cooperation. India rescued citizens from the neighbourhood. It sent 15 tonnes of medical supplies to China. When the crisis peaked - India lifted the ban on the export of personal protection equipment, items like surgical and disposable masks and gloves, supplies that China was running short on due to the outbreak - it was a strong expression of solidarity towards a crisis hit partner. And now, New Delhi has made an overture to SAARC nations. It's a move that could breathe new life into this forum. India has an important role to play in the new world order and South Asia remains one of the least integrated regions in the world. New Delhi could use this opportunity to revive a platform, using its diplomatic heft. SAARC needs to work together to battle this pandemic. The World Bank and the WHO published a report together in 2019. It predicted that a coronavirus like outbreak will cost South Asia's GDP 53 billion dollars. A loss that none of the South Asian countries can afford today. SAARC is perhaps the only alliance that truly represents South Asia. It has eight nations as its members - India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the Maldives. The same countries also face several public health challenges. Just India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka represent around one-fifth of the world's population. The region needs substantial resources and efficient health systems to battle the coronavirus. That's the reason why India's efforts to unite the bloc must be applauded. Britain's exit from the European Union (EU) is one such instance. America's decision to scrap the trans-pacific partnership was another setback. But, if India can manage a SAARC front, it might provide a new template to the world to fight the coronavirus. India's move to bring neighbours together is an example for the whole world. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Coronavirus outbreak - India emerges as a leader

China's exports plummeted in the first two months of this year on the back of a coronavirus epidemic that forced businesses to suspend operations, disrupting the world's supply chains.

Exports fell 17.2 percent, the biggest drop since February 2019 during the trade war with the United States, and imports dropped 4 percent, according to official data released Saturday.

A Bloomberg poll of economists had expected exports to drop less, by 16.2 percent, but had forseen a much starker drop on imports of 16.1 percent.

Consumers stayed home during the Lunar New Year break at the end of January and businesses saw a much slower return to work, as the country struggled to contain the spread of the deadly coronavirus, which has killed more than 3,000 people in China alone.

China's trade surplus with the US -- a key point of contention in the trade dispute between the two countries -- sharply narrowed 40 percent in the first two months, from $42 billion last year to $25.4 billion.

Chinese authorities said last month that January and February's data would be combined.

This is in line with how some other indicators are released, to smooth over distortions from the holiday break.

In an early sign of the economic impact to come, China's manufacturing activity fell to its lowest level on record in February, with non-manufacturing activity plummeting as well.

China's exports plummeted in the first two months of this year on the back of a coronavirus epidemic that forced businesses to suspend operations, disrupting the world's supply chains.

China's exports plummeted in the first two months of this year on the back of a coronavirus epidemic that forced businesses to suspend operations, disrupting the world's supply chains. Exports fell 17.2 percent, the biggest drop since February 2019 during the trade war with the United States, and imports dropped 4 percent, according to official data released Saturday. A Bloomberg poll of economists had expected exports to drop less, by 16.2 percent, but had forseen a much starker drop on imports of 16.1 percent. Consumers stayed home during the Lunar New Year break at the end of January and businesses saw a much slower return to work, as the country struggled to contain the spread of the deadly coronavirus, which has killed more than 3,000 people in China alone. China's trade surplus with the US -- a key point of contention in the trade dispute between the two countries -- sharply narrowed 40 percent in the first two months, from $42 billion last year to $25.4 billion. Chinese authorities said last month that January and February's data would be combined. This is in line with how some other indicators are released, to smooth over distortions from the holiday break. In an early sign of the economic impact to come, China's manufacturing activity fell to its lowest level on record in February, with non-manufacturing activity plummeting as well.

China exports plunge 17.2% in January-February on virus hit

The trade impact of the coronavirus epidemic for India is estimated to be about 348 million dollars and the country figures among the top 15 economies most affected as slowdown of manufacturing in China disrupts world trade, according to a UN report.

Estimates published by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Wednesday said that the slowdown of manufacturing in China due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is disrupting world trade and could result in a 50 billion dollar decrease in exports across global value chains.

The most affected sectors include precision instruments, machinery, automotive and communication equipment.

Among the most affected economies are the European Union ($15.6 billion), the United States ($5.8 billion), Japan ($5.2 billion), South Korea ($3.8 billion), Taiwan Province of China ($2.6 billion) and Vietnam ( $2.3 billion).

India is among the 15 most-affected economies due to the coronavirus epidemic and slow down in production in China, with a trade impact of 348 million dollars.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-inch-higher-virus-fears-limit-gains-284413">Sensex, Nifty inch higher, virus fears limit gains</a>

The trade impact for India is less as compared to other economies such as EU, the US, Japan and South Korea.

Trade impact for Indonesia is 312 million dollars.

For India, the trade impact is estimated to be the most for the chemicals sector at 129 million dollars, textiles and apparel at 64 million dollars, automotive sector at 34 million dollars, electrical machinery at 12 million dollars, leather products at 13 million dollars, metals and metal products at 27 million dollars and wood products and furniture at 15 million dollars.

Besides its worrying effects on human life, the novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) has the potential to significantly slowdown not only the Chinese economy but also the global economy. China has become the central manufacturing hub of many global business operations. Any disruption of China's output is expected to have repercussions elsewhere through regional and global value chains, UNCTAD said.

Over the last month, China has seen a dramatic reduction in its manufacturing Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) to 37.5, its lowest reading since 2004.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-india-live-updates-coronavirus-cases-in-india-live-news-latest-updates-one-intel-employee-potentially-exposed-to-coronavirus-under-quarantine-284099">Coronavirus live updates: 29 positive coronavirus cases in India, including 16 Italians, says Health Minister Harsh Vardhan</a>

This drop implies a 2 per cent reduction in output on an annual basis.

This has come as a direct consequence of the spread of corona virus (COVID-19).

The 2 per cent contraction in China's output has ripple effects through the global economy and thus far has caused an estimated drop of about $50 billion across countries,"UNCTAD said.

"The most affected sectors include precision instruments, machinery, automotive and communication equipment, it added.

UNCTAD said because China has become the central manufacturing hub of many global business operations, a slowdown in Chinese production has repercussions for any given country depending on how reliant its industries are on Chinese suppliers.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nifty-sensex-end-lower-as-coronavirus-cases-jump-to-28-284272">Nifty, Sensex end lower as coronavirus cases jump to 28</a>

In addition to grave threats to human life, the coronavirus outbreak carries serious risks for the global economy, UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi said.

Any slowdown in manufacturing in one part of the world will have a ripple effect in economic activity across the globe because of regional and global value chains, he said.

Pamela Coke-Hamilton, who heads UNCTAD's Division on International Trade and Commodities, said for developing economies that are reliant on selling raw materials, the effects could be felt very, very intensely.

Assuming that it is not mitigated in the short-term, it's likely that the overall impact on the global economy is going to be significant in terms of a negative downturn, she said.

The estimated global effects of COVID-19 are subject to change depending on the containment of the virus and or changes in the sources of supply.

Watch: 

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-resurfaces-in-india-29-cases-26-confirmed-3-cured-284358/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the extent of the damage to the global economy caused by novel coronavirus COVID-19 moved further into focus as UN economists announced a likely $50 billion drop in worldwide manufacturing exports in February alone.

Highlighting the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the economic impact of the epidemic, in which there have been more than 90,000 confirmed cases in more than 70 countries (the majority in China) and over 3,000 deaths, Coke-Hamilton said that US measures in terms of visitor arrivals, cancelling various meetings were having a knock-on effect in terms of demand.

So right now, we're not clear on where it will go a lot will depend on what happens with COVID-19; if they are able to come up with a vaccine then hallelujah, hopefully it will end very quickly, but if not, the impact can be severe, she said.

The trade impact of the coronavirus epidemic for India is estimated to be about 348 million dollars and the country figures among the top 15 economies most affected as slowdown of manufacturing in China disrupts world trade, according to a UN report.

The trade impact of the coronavirus epidemic for India is estimated to be about 348 million dollars and the country figures among the top 15 economies most affected as slowdown of manufacturing in China disrupts world trade, according to a UN report. Estimates published by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Wednesday said that the slowdown of manufacturing in China due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is disrupting world trade and could result in a 50 billion dollar decrease in exports across global value chains. The most affected sectors include precision instruments, machinery, automotive and communication equipment. Among the most affected economies are the European Union ($15.6 billion), the United States ($5.8 billion), Japan ($5.2 billion), South Korea ($3.8 billion), Taiwan Province of China ($2.6 billion) and Vietnam ( $2.3 billion). India is among the 15 most-affected economies due to the coronavirus epidemic and slow down in production in China, with a trade impact of 348 million dollars. Also read: Sensex, Nifty inch higher, virus fears limit gains The trade impact for India is less as compared to other economies such as EU, the US, Japan and South Korea. Trade impact for Indonesia is 312 million dollars. For India, the trade impact is estimated to be the most for the chemicals sector at 129 million dollars, textiles and apparel at 64 million dollars, automotive sector at 34 million dollars, electrical machinery at 12 million dollars, leather products at 13 million dollars, metals and metal products at 27 million dollars and wood products and furniture at 15 million dollars. Besides its worrying effects on human life, the novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) has the potential to significantly slowdown not only the Chinese economy but also the global economy. China has become the central manufacturing hub of many global business operations. Any disruption of China's output is expected to have repercussions elsewhere through regional and global value chains, UNCTAD said. Over the last month, China has seen a dramatic reduction in its manufacturing Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) to 37.5, its lowest reading since 2004. Also see: Coronavirus live updates: 29 positive coronavirus cases in India, including 16 Italians, says Health Minister Harsh Vardhan This drop implies a 2 per cent reduction in output on an annual basis. This has come as a direct consequence of the spread of corona virus (COVID-19). The 2 per cent contraction in China's output has ripple effects through the global economy and thus far has caused an estimated drop of about $50 billion across countries,"UNCTAD said. "The most affected sectors include precision instruments, machinery, automotive and communication equipment, it added. UNCTAD said because China has become the central manufacturing hub of many global business operations, a slowdown in Chinese production has repercussions for any given country depending on how reliant its industries are on Chinese suppliers. Also read: Nifty, Sensex end lower as coronavirus cases jump to 28 In addition to grave threats to human life, the coronavirus outbreak carries serious risks for the global economy, UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi said. Any slowdown in manufacturing in one part of the world will have a ripple effect in economic activity across the globe because of regional and global value chains, he said. Pamela Coke-Hamilton, who heads UNCTAD's Division on International Trade and Commodities, said for developing economies that are reliant on selling raw materials, the effects could be felt very, very intensely. Assuming that it is not mitigated in the short-term, it's likely that the overall impact on the global economy is going to be significant in terms of a negative downturn, she said. The estimated global effects of COVID-19 are subject to change depending on the containment of the virus and or changes in the sources of supply. Watch: × Meanwhile, the extent of the damage to the global economy caused by novel coronavirus COVID-19 moved further into focus as UN economists announced a likely $50 billion drop in worldwide manufacturing exports in February alone. Highlighting the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the economic impact of the epidemic, in which there have been more than 90,000 confirmed cases in more than 70 countries (the majority in China) and over 3,000 deaths, Coke-Hamilton said that US measures in terms of visitor arrivals, cancelling various meetings were having a knock-on effect in terms of demand. So right now, we're not clear on where it will go a lot will depend on what happens with COVID-19; if they are able to come up with a vaccine then hallelujah, hopefully it will end very quickly, but if not, the impact can be severe, she said.

Trade impact of Coronavirus epidemic for India estimated at 348 million dollars: UN report

The deadly coronavirus has killed more than 3,000 people, the vast majority in mainland China even as 61 countries across our globe are grappling with the outbreak. There are now more than 88,000 global cases, with infections on every continent except Antarctica.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization said “in the last 24 hours, there were almost nine times more cases reported outside China than inside China. The epidemic in the Republic of Korea, Italy, Iran and Japan are our greatest concern.

France has confirmed a total of 191 cases of Covid-19. This is a steep rise from yesterday. The country confirmed 61 cases in the last 24 hours.

Senegal has reported its first case of coronavirus. In South Asia, Pakistan has recorded its fifth case of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-has-43-domestic-cases-of-coronavirus-mike-pence-283849">Covid-19</a>. The government of Gilgit-Baltistan has shut down all its schools and colleges. Pakistan remains vulnerable as it shares porous borders with Iran which is currently one of the worst-hit outside mainland China.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Twitter has asked its employees to work from home amid the coronavirus outbreak. The US has confirmed the death of six people due to the deadly coronavirus outbreak, all in Washington.

According to experts, the death toll is likely to rise in the coming days as the virus might spread to other states. However, US President Donald Trump and Vice-President Mike Pence are hopeful that the country is at the low level of risk and they will be able to combat the Covid-19 from becoming a pandemic in the country.

"We're also working with Congress to ensure that America has what it needs to respond to this challenge. Great challenge. But everybody is responding very well. Since the start of the outbreak, my administration has taken the most aggressive action in history to protect our citizens including closing our borders very early, a lot earlier than people wanted us to do, and that turned out to be a good decision," US President Donald Trump said.

Italy has become a hotbed of coronavirus. The country has recorded 52 deaths and over 2,000 cases have been recorded. Amid outbreak in Milan, university students have begun their semesters at home -- attending digital lectures.

Teachers are recording sessions which are being streamed online by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-has-43-domestic-cases-of-coronavirus-mike-pence-283849">students at homes</a>.

Many schools which have been shut down have set-up websites and email that have allowed teachers and pupils to stay in touch and exchange lessons and homework. Around 85 Indian students stuck in Italy have sent an SOS seeking evacuation at the earliest. These are students stuck in the town of Pavia, in the Lombardy region which is the epicentre of the coronavirus in Italy. Some of these students had booked flights to India which were cancelled in the wake of the virus outbreak.

The deadly coronavirus has killed more than 3,000 people, the vast majority in mainland China even as 61 countries across our globe are grappling with the outbreak.

The deadly coronavirus has killed more than 3,000 people, the vast majority in mainland China even as 61 countries across our globe are grappling with the outbreak. There are now more than 88,000 global cases, with infections on every continent except Antarctica. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization said “in the last 24 hours, there were almost nine times more cases reported outside China than inside China. The epidemic in the Republic of Korea, Italy, Iran and Japan are our greatest concern. France has confirmed a total of 191 cases of Covid-19. This is a steep rise from yesterday. The country confirmed 61 cases in the last 24 hours. Senegal has reported its first case of coronavirus. In South Asia, Pakistan has recorded its fifth case of Covid-19. The government of Gilgit-Baltistan has shut down all its schools and colleges. Pakistan remains vulnerable as it shares porous borders with Iran which is currently one of the worst-hit outside mainland China. Meanwhile, Twitter has asked its employees to work from home amid the coronavirus outbreak. The US has confirmed the death of six people due to the deadly coronavirus outbreak, all in Washington. According to experts, the death toll is likely to rise in the coming days as the virus might spread to other states. However, US President Donald Trump and Vice-President Mike Pence are hopeful that the country is at the low level of risk and they will be able to combat the Covid-19 from becoming a pandemic in the country. "We're also working with Congress to ensure that America has what it needs to respond to this challenge. Great challenge. But everybody is responding very well. Since the start of the outbreak, my administration has taken the most aggressive action in history to protect our citizens including closing our borders very early, a lot earlier than people wanted us to do, and that turned out to be a good decision," US President Donald Trump said. Italy has become a hotbed of coronavirus. The country has recorded 52 deaths and over 2,000 cases have been recorded. Amid outbreak in Milan, university students have begun their semesters at home -- attending digital lectures. Teachers are recording sessions which are being streamed online by the students at homes. Many schools which have been shut down have set-up websites and email that have allowed teachers and pupils to stay in touch and exchange lessons and homework. Around 85 Indian students stuck in Italy have sent an SOS seeking evacuation at the earliest. These are students stuck in the town of Pavia, in the Lombardy region which is the epicentre of the coronavirus in Italy. Some of these students had booked flights to India which were cancelled in the wake of the virus outbreak.

Coronavirus spreads rapidly outside China as US reports 6 deaths 

China on Sunday said that 35 more people died due to novel coronavirus, taking the toll in the country to 2,870. The number is lower than the 47 fatalities reported by Chinese authorities on Saturday.

China on Sunday said that 35 more people died due to novel coronavirus, taking the toll in the country to 2,870. The number is lower than the 47 fatalities reported by Chinese authorities on Saturday. The National Health Commission also reported 573 new infections, bringing the total number of cases in mainland China to 79,824, a Reuters report said. While still in the hundreds, the figure for new infections is far lower than the huge, daily increase in cases China was recording in January and February, the report added. All but one of the 35 deaths were in Hubei province, whose capital Wuhan is the epicentre of the outbreak. The new coronavirus, which has killed nearly 3,000 people and infected more than 86,000 in several countries across the world, is believed to have first emerged late last year in a Wuhan market that sold wild animals. (With inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus: China reports 35 more virus deaths, 573 new cases

Bitter territorial disputes and long-running grievances dating back to World War II have marred the Japan-China relationship for decades. During WWII, the Japanese Imperial Army was responsible for a 1937 campaign of rape, murder and looting that became known as the Nanjing Massacre, in which an estimated 300,000 people died, CNN report said.

Bitter territorial disputes and long-running grievances dating back to World War II have marred the Japan-China relationship for decades. During WWII, the Japanese Imperial Army was responsible for a 1937 campaign of rape, murder and looting that became known as the Nanjing Massacre, in which an estimated 300,000 people died, CNN report said. Japanese air strikes during the war also inflicted severe damage on Chinese civilians in Chongqing, killing an estimated 32,000 people between February 1938 and August 1943, the report added. China and Japan have often argued over how the past should be remembered. Successive Japanese governments have apologized, with some prime ministers personally expressing regret for Japan's actions in the war, but many Chinese believe Japan has not adequately acknowledged the extent of its brutal occupation of the country during WWII. With a looming global economic slump and racist coronavirus-related assaults and slurs spreading faster than the outbreak, for now, China and Japan appear to be focusing on what they share in common and what benefits both parties.

China and Japan's relationship thawing amid coronavirus outbreak 

China's death toll from the coronavirus epidemic rose to 2,442 on Sunday after the government said 97 more people had died, all but one of them in the epicentre of Hubei province.

China's death toll from the coronavirus epidemic rose to 2,442 on Sunday after the government said 97 more people had died, all but one of them in the epicentre of Hubei province. The National Health Commission also confirmed another 648 new cases in China. The vast majority of both deaths and new infections were in the hard-hit Hubei provincial capital of Wuhan, where the virus first emerged in December. China's total infections reached 76,936, the commission said in its daily update. The coronavirus has spread to more than 25 countries and is causing mounting alarm due to new pockets of outbreak in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. China's numbers of daily new infections are well down from the outbreak's early height. But China has sowed confusion about the data by repeatedly changing its counting methods.

Coronavirus: China reports another 97 virus deaths, nearly 650 new cases

China reportedly delaying granting clearance to Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster plane carrying relief supplies to China which will also bring back the remaining Indian nationals from Wuhan.

Sources have told WION that china is deliberately delaying granting clearance to the flight which will carry out evacuations in Wuhan.

India, which has already evacuated over 600 of its citizens from Wuhan, has been ready to send another flight to rescue its remaining nationals from the coronavirus epicentre.

While Beijing maintains that there is no delay, it has not yet given any official reason for the wait. The Indian flight was scheduled to leave for China on Friday, but couldn't due to the lack of permission.

Unlike the last time in which operations were carried out by civilian jets, this time around, India has sent a military aircraft.

February 17, New Delhi announced that it will send the IAF's largest plane to bring back all its nationals from Wuhan. The plane will also be carrying medical supplies.

Other nations including France are carrying out rescue operations in Wuhan.

The wait comes even as China said that it attached high importance to the lives and health of all foreign nationals in the country.

China reportedly delaying granting clearance to Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster plane carrying relief supplies to China which will also bring back the remaining Indian nationals from Wuhan.

China reportedly delaying granting clearance to Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster plane carrying relief supplies to China which will also bring back the remaining Indian nationals from Wuhan. Sources have told WION that china is deliberately delaying granting clearance to the flight which will carry out evacuations in Wuhan. India, which has already evacuated over 600 of its citizens from Wuhan, has been ready to send another flight to rescue its remaining nationals from the coronavirus epicentre. While Beijing maintains that there is no delay, it has not yet given any official reason for the wait. The Indian flight was scheduled to leave for China on Friday, but couldn't due to the lack of permission. Unlike the last time in which operations were carried out by civilian jets, this time around, India has sent a military aircraft. February 17, New Delhi announced that it will send the IAF's largest plane to bring back all its nationals from Wuhan. The plane will also be carrying medical supplies. Other nations including France are carrying out rescue operations in Wuhan. The wait comes even as China said that it attached high importance to the lives and health of all foreign nationals in the country.

Coronavirus: China delays India's Wuhan evacuation plan, say sources 

In a major shift in China’s position, which has always backed Pakistan at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-remain-on-the-fatf-grey-list-281389">FATF</a>, Beijing sent a stern message to Pakistan to complete its commitments on action against terrorist financing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-response-to-fatf-does-not-mention-dawood-ibrahim-281510">Also Read: Pakistan does not mention Dawood Ibrahim in its response to FATF</a>

It is an extremely significant development and India now has China, Saudi Arabia, US and European countries backing its stand. 
&nbsp; 
Despite the eyewash of Hafiz Saeed's sentencing days ahead of the financial action task force, Pakistan continues to be on the financial watchdog's greylist.&nbsp;

Sources have told WION that though the current <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jaish-e-mohammeds-masood-azhar-has-gone-missing-with-his-family-pakistan-informs-fatf-280971">FATF</a> chair China along with Turkey and Malaysia pushed Pakistan's case, it will remain where it has been for over 18 months.

Sources reveal that a meeting of the international cooperation review group, sub-group of the FATF, has recommended to retain Pakistan on the greylist.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-meeting-china-says-pak-made-visible-progress-to-curb-terror-financing-by-k-j-m-varma-276167">Also Read:&nbsp;China says Pakistan made 'visible progress' to curb terror financing</a>

The final decision will be taken on Friday when the FATF takes up Pakistan’s case.

Blacklisting by the Paris-based financial action task force could have been a blow for Pakistan's economic reform programme leading to severe economic sanctions.&nbsp;

The international monetary fund had said in an internal report that it would have led to a freeze on investments and other capital inflows, including funding by the IMF, if Pakistan is not removed from the grey list by April, it may automatically slide into the blacklist.

The body had warned that Islamabad in October last year could be put on the blacklist if it did not comply with the remaining 22 out of 27 points related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing.

Pakistan in its report to FATF had stated that while it has completely implemented 14 out of the 27 points in the FATF action plan, it has also been partially compliant with at least 11 points.

On the other hand, FATF has demanded Pakistan to further tighten its laws and hold organizations and individuals behind money laundering and terror financing accountable.

In a major shift in China’s position, which has always backed Pakistan at the FATF, Beijing sent a stern message to Pakistan to complete its commitments on action against terrorist financing.

In a major shift in China’s position, which has always backed Pakistan at the FATF, Beijing sent a stern message to Pakistan to complete its commitments on action against terrorist financing. Also Read: Pakistan does not mention Dawood Ibrahim in its response to FATF It is an extremely significant development and India now has China, Saudi Arabia, US and European countries backing its stand. Despite the eyewash of Hafiz Saeed's sentencing days ahead of the financial action task force, Pakistan continues to be on the financial watchdog's greylist. Sources have told WION that though the current FATF chair China along with Turkey and Malaysia pushed Pakistan's case, it will remain where it has been for over 18 months. Sources reveal that a meeting of the international cooperation review group, sub-group of the FATF, has recommended to retain Pakistan on the greylist. Also Read: China says Pakistan made 'visible progress' to curb terror financing The final decision will be taken on Friday when the FATF takes up Pakistan’s case. Blacklisting by the Paris-based financial action task force could have been a blow for Pakistan's economic reform programme leading to severe economic sanctions. The international monetary fund had said in an internal report that it would have led to a freeze on investments and other capital inflows, including funding by the IMF, if Pakistan is not removed from the grey list by April, it may automatically slide into the blacklist. The body had warned that Islamabad in October last year could be put on the blacklist if it did not comply with the remaining 22 out of 27 points related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing. Pakistan in its report to FATF had stated that while it has completely implemented 14 out of the 27 points in the FATF action plan, it has also been partially compliant with at least 11 points. On the other hand, FATF has demanded Pakistan to further tighten its laws and hold organizations and individuals behind money laundering and terror financing accountable.

In major shift, China sends stern message to Pakistan on FATF

As China battles the coronavirus outbreak, the death toll leapt past 1850&nbsp;and more than 72,400 confirmed cases have now been reported across&nbsp;Mainland China.

According to reports, nearly 93 new deaths have been reported in China's Hubei province in the past 24 hours. Meanwhile Beijing said that 1,868 people have died due to the deadly virus while 1,807 new cases have also been recorded.

A total of &nbsp;72,436 cases of cornovirus recorded across Mainland China so far, the report added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-cgtn-exclusive-couple-offers-free-food-delivery-in-china-281247/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

So far five deaths have been recorded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-intends-to-destory-infected-currency-in-a-bid-to-contain-coronavirus-281181">outside Mainland China</a> -- Philippines, Hong Kong, Japan, France and Taiwan.

According to reports, a Chinese general with a long record in biological warfare was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-99-more-coronavirus-cases-confirmed-in-diamond-princess-japanese-cruise-281124">sent to Wuhan</a> in January to take over a secretive virus laboratory. This has fueled conspiracy theories about the origin of the deadly virus and if the epidemic is in a way linked to medical laboratory researching COVID-19.

According to reports, Chen Wei,&nbsp;a major general of&nbsp;People's Liberation Army,&nbsp;took over the Wuhan Institute of Virology.&nbsp;

The report also claimed&nbsp;that this secretive virus laboratory is run by China's military.

As China battles the coronavirus outbreak, the death toll leapt past 1850 and more than 72,400 confirmed cases have now been reported across Mainland China. According to reports, nearly 93 new deaths have been reported in China's Hubei province in the past 24 hours.

As China battles the coronavirus outbreak, the death toll leapt past 1850 and more than 72,400 confirmed cases have now been reported across Mainland China. According to reports, nearly 93 new deaths have been reported in China's Hubei province in the past 24 hours. Meanwhile Beijing said that 1,868 people have died due to the deadly virus while 1,807 new cases have also been recorded. A total of 72,436 cases of cornovirus recorded across Mainland China so far, the report added. × So far five deaths have been recorded outside Mainland China -- Philippines, Hong Kong, Japan, France and Taiwan. According to reports, a Chinese general with a long record in biological warfare was sent to Wuhan in January to take over a secretive virus laboratory. This has fueled conspiracy theories about the origin of the deadly virus and if the epidemic is in a way linked to medical laboratory researching COVID-19. According to reports, Chen Wei, a major general of People's Liberation Army, took over the Wuhan Institute of Virology. The report also claimed that this secretive virus laboratory is run by China's military.

Coronavirus toll leaps past 1850 with 93 new deaths in China's Hubei province

China will grant exemptions on retaliatory duties imposed against 696 US goods, the most substantial tariff relief to be offered so far, as Beijing seeks to fulfil commitments made in its interim trade deal with the United States.

Tuesday's announcement comes after the Phase 1 trade deal between the two countries took effect on February 14 and is the third round of tariff exemptions China has offered on US goods.

China has committed to boosting its purchases of goods and services from the United States by $200 billion over two years as part of the agreement and has already rolled back some additional tariffs on US imports after the deal was signed.

US goods eligible for tariff exemptions include key agricultural and energy products such as pork, beef, soybeans, liquefied natural gas and crude oil, which were subject to extra tariffs imposed during the escalation of the bilateral trade dispute.

The coronavirus epidemic that emerged late last year in China has raised concerns about its ability to meet the purchasing targets, however. Authorities throughout the country imposed major restriction on travel and transportation to curb the spread of the virus, which has killed nearly 1,900 and infected more than 70,000 in the country.

The containment efforts have kept factories shut or operating with drastically reduced staff, hitting production. The public has also been discouraged from leaving their homes or going to public places, also stunting consumption.

White House adviser Larry Kudlow said earlier this month that Chinese President Xi Jinping told US President Donald Trump during a recent call that China will still meet its Phase 1 trade deal purchasing targets.

Beijing's announcement on Tuesday emphasised that Chinese firms will submit applications for tariff exemptions based on market conditions and commercial considerations.

"Unless the state forcefully asks firms to apply for tariff exemption and buy US soybeans, crushers would still go for Brazilian beans, based on market free will," said a trader, adding that Brazilian beans are of good quality and price this year.

Other products subject to exemption on additional tariffs imposed include denatured ethanol and wheat, corn and sorghum. Some medical devices and metals including copper ore and concentrates, copper scrap and aluminium scrap are also subject to exemption.

Pharmaceutical products such as recombinant human insulin and some antibiotics are also among US products eligible for tariff exemptions.

Firms can start submitting their applications on March 2, and any exemptions granted will be valid for one year.

China will grant exemptions on retaliatory duties imposed against 696 US goods, the most substantial tariff relief to be offered so far, as Beijing seeks to fulfil commitments made in its interim trade deal with the United States.

China will grant exemptions on retaliatory duties imposed against 696 US goods, the most substantial tariff relief to be offered so far, as Beijing seeks to fulfil commitments made in its interim trade deal with the United States. Tuesday's announcement comes after the Phase 1 trade deal between the two countries took effect on February 14 and is the third round of tariff exemptions China has offered on US goods. China has committed to boosting its purchases of goods and services from the United States by $200 billion over two years as part of the agreement and has already rolled back some additional tariffs on US imports after the deal was signed. US goods eligible for tariff exemptions include key agricultural and energy products such as pork, beef, soybeans, liquefied natural gas and crude oil, which were subject to extra tariffs imposed during the escalation of the bilateral trade dispute. The coronavirus epidemic that emerged late last year in China has raised concerns about its ability to meet the purchasing targets, however. Authorities throughout the country imposed major restriction on travel and transportation to curb the spread of the virus, which has killed nearly 1,900 and infected more than 70,000 in the country. The containment efforts have kept factories shut or operating with drastically reduced staff, hitting production. The public has also been discouraged from leaving their homes or going to public places, also stunting consumption. White House adviser Larry Kudlow said earlier this month that Chinese President Xi Jinping told US President Donald Trump during a recent call that China will still meet its Phase 1 trade deal purchasing targets. Beijing's announcement on Tuesday emphasised that Chinese firms will submit applications for tariff exemptions based on market conditions and commercial considerations. "Unless the state forcefully asks firms to apply for tariff exemption and buy US soybeans, crushers would still go for Brazilian beans, based on market free will," said a trader, adding that Brazilian beans are of good quality and price this year. Other products subject to exemption on additional tariffs imposed include denatured ethanol and wheat, corn and sorghum. Some medical devices and metals including copper ore and concentrates, copper scrap and aluminium scrap are also subject to exemption. Pharmaceutical products such as recombinant human insulin and some antibiotics are also among US products eligible for tariff exemptions. Firms can start submitting their applications on March 2, and any exemptions granted will be valid for one year.

China to grant tariff exemptions on 696 US goods to support purchases

Nearly 99 more people on the cruise ship off Yokohama have been confirmed infected with novel coronavirus, Japanese media reported on Monday.

With the additional cases, the total number of positive cases on the Diamond Princess rose to 454.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-quarantined-in-china-as-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-to-1770-281002">Millions quarantined in China as coronavirus death toll rises to 1,770</a>

Japan's health ministry has not confirmed the reports so far.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/americans-fly-home-from-coronavirus-hit-cruise-china-says-new-cases-slow-280996">40 Americans on cruise ship infected with coronavirus; China reports third straight drop</a>

After China, the cruise moored in Yokohama near Tokyo has the next highest number of cases.

Passengers on the cruise have largely been confined to quarters since February 5 and are occasionally allowed to take the air on deck with face masks.

The quarantine period for the people on the ship was over on Wednesday. Many countries have started repatriating their citizens after an alarming climb in cases on board.

The US was the first country to start the repatriation and Australia, Canada, Italy, and Hong Kong have signaled they would take a similar path.

On land, coronavirus-infected cases jumped to 65 in Japan.

The massive outbreak has so far killed more than 1,700 people, with China recording most of the casualties.

&nbsp;

Nearly 99 more people on the cruise ship off Yokohama have been confirmed infected with novel coronavirus, Japanese media reported on Monday. With the additional cases, the total number of positive cases on the Diamond Princess rose to 454.

Nearly 99 more people on the cruise ship off Yokohama have been confirmed infected with novel coronavirus, Japanese media reported on Monday. With the additional cases, the total number of positive cases on the Diamond Princess rose to 454. Also read: Millions quarantined in China as coronavirus death toll rises to 1,770 Japan's health ministry has not confirmed the reports so far. Also read: 40 Americans on cruise ship infected with coronavirus; China reports third straight drop After China, the cruise moored in Yokohama near Tokyo has the next highest number of cases. Passengers on the cruise have largely been confined to quarters since February 5 and are occasionally allowed to take the air on deck with face masks. The quarantine period for the people on the ship was over on Wednesday. Many countries have started repatriating their citizens after an alarming climb in cases on board. The US was the first country to start the repatriation and Australia, Canada, Italy, and Hong Kong have signaled they would take a similar path. On land, coronavirus-infected cases jumped to 65 in Japan. The massive outbreak has so far killed more than 1,700 people, with China recording most of the casualties.

99 more confirmed with coronavirus on Japanese cruise; total cases jump to 454

143 new deaths have been reported across China due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours, raising the toll to 1,523 due to deadly virus even as more than 60,000 infected cases reported in China.

All but four of the 143 new deaths were in Hubei province.

China's National Health Commission also reported 2,641 new cases of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-quarantines-returning-residents-as-china-struggles-to-pick-up-economy-280760">COVID-19</a>, with the vast majority in hard-hit central Hubei province.

In an unprecedented effort to contain the virus, Chinese authorities have placed some 56 million people in Hubei under quarantine, virtually sealing off the province from the rest of the country.

Watch |&nbsp;India faces a spike in demand for face masks

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-faces-spike-in-demand-of-face-masks-sanitizers-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-around-the-world-280764/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, People returning to the Chinese capital Beijing from extended holidays on Friday were ordered to undergo a 14-day self-quarantine to help prevent the spread of the virus, as hard-hit Hubei province reported more than 2,400 new cases.

According to reports, people failing to obey would be punished but it was not immediately clear how that would be enforced, or whether the restrictions would apply to non-residents of Beijing or foreigners arriving from abroad.

More medical workers and supplies from many parts of the country are arriving in Wuhan to support the local people in the fight against novel coronavirus.

The civil aviation administration of China organised 13 planes from six <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-pollution-grips-chinas-capital-despite-reduced-emissions-from-coronavirus-economic-slowdown-280690">Chinese civil aviation companies</a> to transport nearly 2,000 medical workers and large quantities of medical supplies to Wuhan on Friday.

Soldiers of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationed in Hubei are also busy transporting supplies and have conducted their largest transport mission on Friday, dispatching 249 people and 106 army vehicles to deliver 285 tons of supplies for daily use to 69 outlets.

Meanwhile, Egypt has now confirmed the first coronavirus case in Africa.

Egyptian authorities have said that the patient been placed in quarantined isolation in hospital.

Earlier this month, Egypt suspended all flights on its national carrier to China.

143 new deaths have been reported across China due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours, raising the toll to 1,523 due to deadly virus even as more than 60,000 infected cases reported in China.

143 new deaths have been reported across China due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours, raising the toll to 1,523 due to deadly virus even as more than 60,000 infected cases reported in China. All but four of the 143 new deaths were in Hubei province. China's National Health Commission also reported 2,641 new cases of the COVID-19, with the vast majority in hard-hit central Hubei province. In an unprecedented effort to contain the virus, Chinese authorities have placed some 56 million people in Hubei under quarantine, virtually sealing off the province from the rest of the country. Watch | India faces a spike in demand for face masks × Meanwhile, People returning to the Chinese capital Beijing from extended holidays on Friday were ordered to undergo a 14-day self-quarantine to help prevent the spread of the virus, as hard-hit Hubei province reported more than 2,400 new cases. According to reports, people failing to obey would be punished but it was not immediately clear how that would be enforced, or whether the restrictions would apply to non-residents of Beijing or foreigners arriving from abroad. More medical workers and supplies from many parts of the country are arriving in Wuhan to support the local people in the fight against novel coronavirus. The civil aviation administration of China organised 13 planes from six Chinese civil aviation companies to transport nearly 2,000 medical workers and large quantities of medical supplies to Wuhan on Friday. Soldiers of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationed in Hubei are also busy transporting supplies and have conducted their largest transport mission on Friday, dispatching 249 people and 106 army vehicles to deliver 285 tons of supplies for daily use to 69 outlets. Meanwhile, Egypt has now confirmed the first coronavirus case in Africa. Egyptian authorities have said that the patient been placed in quarantined isolation in hospital. Earlier this month, Egypt suspended all flights on its national carrier to China.

COVID-19: 143 new deaths reported in China as toll rises to 1,523

The number of deaths due to China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 722, surpassing the toll from the SARS outbreak on the mainland and Hong Kong almost two decades ago.

More than 34,500 confirmed infections reported across the country.

84 new casualties were reported overnight.

China has struggled to contain the current virus despite having placed some 56 million people under effective<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-chinese-tech-giants-launch-platforms-and-services-aimed-at-providing-verified-information-about-ncov-279244"> lockdown in Hubei</a> and its provincial capital, Wuhan, reported news agency AFP.

Other cities far from the epicentre have also taken measures to keep people indoors, limiting the number of individuals who can leave their home.

Friday's death of a 34-year-old Wuhan doctor who was punished for raising the alarm about the virus in December sparked an outpouring of grief and anger over the government's handling of the crisis.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/death-toll-from-coronavirus-in-china-rises-to-638-279176/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The virus has spread to two dozen countries, prompting several governments to ban arrivals from China and urge their citizens to avoid travelling to the country. Some have recommended their citizens leave China.

Major airlines have suspended flights to and from China.

At least 61 people aboard a cruise ship off Japan have tested positive for the new coronavirus, with thousands of passengers and crew facing a two-week quarantine.

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

The number of deaths due to China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 722, surpassing the toll from the SARS outbreak on the mainland and Hong Kong almost two decades ago.

The number of deaths due to China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 722, surpassing the toll from the SARS outbreak on the mainland and Hong Kong almost two decades ago. More than 34,500 confirmed infections reported across the country. 84 new casualties were reported overnight. China has struggled to contain the current virus despite having placed some 56 million people under effective lockdown in Hubei and its provincial capital, Wuhan, reported news agency AFP. Other cities far from the epicentre have also taken measures to keep people indoors, limiting the number of individuals who can leave their home. Friday's death of a 34-year-old Wuhan doctor who was punished for raising the alarm about the virus in December sparked an outpouring of grief and anger over the government's handling of the crisis. × The virus has spread to two dozen countries, prompting several governments to ban arrivals from China and urge their citizens to avoid travelling to the country. Some have recommended their citizens leave China. Major airlines have suspended flights to and from China. At least 61 people aboard a cruise ship off Japan have tested positive for the new coronavirus, with thousands of passengers and crew facing a two-week quarantine. (With inputs from AFP)

Coronavirus death toll jumps to 722, surpasses toll from SARS outbreak

china-0

China, News on China, stories on China, articles on China, China stories at Wion, China news, China latest news

china 0