More than 10,000 have died in Italy and the country needs urgent help. European Union also seems helpless since the continent is experiencing its worst crisis since the second world war. The crisis has reached a point where doctors have to take a call of admitting which patients and whom should they left to die. The medical equipment are being taken away from those that are unlikely to make it.&nbsp;

In such a scenario, China is leading the way to assist Italy in terms of providing medical gears. However, the quality of Chinese equipment is questionable. The "so-called" help by China is an attempt to build its image.&nbsp;

Watch&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-coronavirus-italians-seek-war-damages-from-china-289545/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, there is widespread anger in Italy against China as the people there want to hold the Chinese Communist Party responsible for the crisis.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-china-be-trusted-in-its-attempts-to-become-messiah-for-fighting-coronavirus-289030">Can China be trusted in its attempts to become messiah for fighting coronavirus</a>

Italian journalist Francesca Marino says China's negligence led to a global crisis. She is the one who wants China to pay for the damages. Italians demand war damages from China.&nbsp;

The anger is understandable, but the harsh reality is that the government of Italy&nbsp;cannot do much against China.&nbsp;

Beijing has substantial influence over Rome.&nbsp;

As per a report, some 2000 Italian businesses are now controlled by Chinese.&nbsp;

China's central bank holds stakes in many Italian blue-chip companies, which includes Fiat, Telecom Italia, Insurance company Generali, among others.&nbsp;

Italy also showed sympathy towards China when the outbreak was at its peak in China's Wuhan. A campaign was launched, which called for hugging a Chinese. Florance mayor supported this campaign.&nbsp;

Last year, Italy became the first developed country to join China's ambitious Belt and Road initiative.&nbsp;

After the situation turns back to normal in Italy, there are chances of Italy improving its intimacy towards China, giving them another hug.

 
&nbsp;

More than 10,000 have died in Italy and the country needs urgent help. European Union also seems helpless since the continent is experiencing its worst crisis since the second world war.

More than 10,000 have died in Italy and the country needs urgent help. European Union also seems helpless since the continent is experiencing its worst crisis since the second world war. The crisis has reached a point where doctors have to take a call of admitting which patients and whom should they left to die. The medical equipment are being taken away from those that are unlikely to make it. In such a scenario, China is leading the way to assist Italy in terms of providing medical gears. However, the quality of Chinese equipment is questionable. The "so-called" help by China is an attempt to build its image. Watch However, there is widespread anger in Italy against China as the people there want to hold the Chinese Communist Party responsible for the crisis. Also read | Can China be trusted in its attempts to become messiah for fighting coronavirus Italian journalist Francesca Marino says China's negligence led to a global crisis. She is the one who wants China to pay for the damages. Italians demand war damages from China. The anger is understandable, but the harsh reality is that the government of Italy cannot do much against China. Beijing has substantial influence over Rome. As per a report, some 2000 Italian businesses are now controlled by Chinese. China's central bank holds stakes in many Italian blue-chip companies, which includes Fiat, Telecom Italia, Insurance company Generali, among others. Italy also showed sympathy towards China when the outbreak was at its peak in China's Wuhan. A campaign was launched, which called for hugging a Chinese. Florance mayor supported this campaign. Last year, Italy became the first developed country to join China's ambitious Belt and Road initiative. After the situation turns back to normal in Italy, there are chances of Italy improving its intimacy towards China, giving them another hug.

As China attempts image-building, Italians demand payment of damages

China, after spreading the deadly virus to the world, is trying to don the saviour's hat. It is on an image-building mission. After crippling mankind with the coronavirus, China wants now to become a global donor.

It is sending emergency supplies and other assistance to the world. But, with the reputation China holds, it is difficult to take things on face value. Watch this video first and see it yourself why China can still not be trusted.&nbsp;

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-coronavirus-chinese-firms-are-selling-substandard-testing-kits-289015/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The above video clearly shows medical experts from China sharing their experiences in containing the novel coronavirus. However, these officials are Malaysian healthcare workers.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/china-manoeuvres-to-protect-its-interests-in-gulf-while-keeping-its-hands-clean-288908">China manoeuvres to protect its interests in Gulf while keeping its hands clean</a>

On March 25, a chartered plan arrived in Milan in Italy with health kits. The officials, who were seen in the previous compilation video, were holding Chinese flags, as the country tries to manage its PR.

China extended its generosity to 89 Countries, including Cambodia and France, apart from four international organisations.&nbsp;

However, interesting developments took place in the last 24 hours. Spain turned down 9,000 Chinese-manufactured test kits. The Spanish government said that the kits were faulty and 70 per cent of the times give wrong results.&nbsp;

In hindsight, China is even though pretending to help nations in order to improve its image, history and current examples tell us that the country can't be trusted.

And this means neither its claims nor its substandard products.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

China, after spreading the deadly virus to the world, is trying to don the saviour's hat. It is on an image-building mission. After crippling mankind with the coronavirus, China wants now to become a global donor.

China, after spreading the deadly virus to the world, is trying to don the saviour's hat. It is on an image-building mission. After crippling mankind with the coronavirus, China wants now to become a global donor. It is sending emergency supplies and other assistance to the world. But, with the reputation China holds, it is difficult to take things on face value. Watch this video first and see it yourself why China can still not be trusted. Watch The above video clearly shows medical experts from China sharing their experiences in containing the novel coronavirus. However, these officials are Malaysian healthcare workers. Also read | China manoeuvres to protect its interests in Gulf while keeping its hands clean On March 25, a chartered plan arrived in Milan in Italy with health kits. The officials, who were seen in the previous compilation video, were holding Chinese flags, as the country tries to manage its PR. China extended its generosity to 89 Countries, including Cambodia and France, apart from four international organisations. However, interesting developments took place in the last 24 hours. Spain turned down 9,000 Chinese-manufactured test kits. The Spanish government said that the kits were faulty and 70 per cent of the times give wrong results. In hindsight, China is even though pretending to help nations in order to improve its image, history and current examples tell us that the country can't be trusted. And this means neither its claims nor its substandard products.

Can China be trusted in its attempts to become messiah for fighting coronavirus

China and the United States should "unite to fight" the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has ravaged the globe, said President Xi Jinping in a call with his US counterpart on Friday, according to state media.

The two countries have clashed in recent weeks over the virus, but Xi told Trump China "wishes to continue sharing all information and experience with the&nbsp;US," as per media reports.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-the-chinese-virus-or-wuhan-virus-only-coronavirus-china-288816" hreflang="en">Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China</a>

Trump also tweeted about the conversation, saying he and Xi were "working closely together."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tops-world-in-virus-cases-overtaking-china-and-italy-288788" hreflang="en">US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy</a>

"China has been through much and has developed a strong understanding of the virus," he said,&nbsp;notably omitting the term "China virus," which he has used several times in the past week.

Earlier at a press conference, Trump&nbsp;had mentioned&nbsp;he was due to speak with Xi, but took a more cautious tone. “Number one, you don’t know what the numbers are in China,” he said of the case numbers, which have dropped dramatically in the past few weeks.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tops-world-in-virus-cases-overtaking-china-and-italy-288788">US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy</a> 
 
COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-testing-kits-and-ventilators-are-they-the-difference-between-life-and-death-288763" hreflang="en">Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death?</a>

According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pandemic-will-cut-global-investment-flows-more-than-feared-un-288745">Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says&nbsp;UN</a>

In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

China and the United States should "unite to fight" the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has ravaged the globe, said President Xi Jinping in a call with his US counterpart on Friday, according to state media.

China and the United States should "unite to fight" the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has ravaged the globe, said President Xi Jinping in a call with his US counterpart on Friday, according to state media. The two countries have clashed in recent weeks over the virus, but Xi told Trump China "wishes to continue sharing all information and experience with the US," as per media reports. Also read: Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China Trump also tweeted about the conversation, saying he and Xi were "working closely together." Also read: US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy "China has been through much and has developed a strong understanding of the virus," he said, notably omitting the term "China virus," which he has used several times in the past week. Earlier at a press conference, Trump had mentioned he was due to speak with Xi, but took a more cautious tone. “Number one, you don’t know what the numbers are in China,” he said of the case numbers, which have dropped dramatically in the past few weeks. Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. Also read: US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. Also read: Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death? According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. Also read: Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says UN In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

Jinping says China and US must 'unite to fight coronavirus'

Why should we take China's propaganda push seriously? because the Communist Party does.

In 2018, China spent more than six billion dollars to create a global media platform to spread its message. Propaganda is an important tool to keep control in&nbsp;China.

We have all heard how Beijing keeps tight control over the media at home. Now, it is expanding its propaganda machinery across the world.

For the Communist Party, the medium doesn't matter as long as&nbsp;its propaganda reaches far and wide.

The latest tool of delivery is a mobile app called "study the powerful country". This is a tool to teach the Xi Jinping thoughts, the policy and ideals of the Chinese president, that are now enshrined in China's constitution.

Beijing has effective tools to control the narrative at home.&nbsp;It now wants the same power beyond its borders.

China is now aggressively pushing its message on global social media websites.

An investigation by ProPublica has exposed Beijing's propaganda machinery. Since 2019, this website has tracked more than 10 thousand suspected fake Twitter accounts.

ProPublica says these accounts were involved in a coordinated influence campaign.

On first impressions, these accounts look like any average social media.

The fake profiles include a professor from North Carolina,&nbsp;a web designer in the United Kingdom and&nbsp;a&nbsp;business analyst from Australia.

ProPublica found that all of them shared pro-China posts, repeatedly on their accounts. They are all cogs in China's propaganda machine.&nbsp;

However, the campaign to win influence is not just online.

China is trying to win over foreign journalists too.

Reportedly, since 2016, the Chinese government has paid several foreign journalists including from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan to participate in a 10-month long program.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the journalists stayed in plush residences in Beijing during their training. They were given free tours to different Chinese provinces.

Even free language classes at the end of the program.

China is not only trying to win more positive coverage, but it is also shutting down criticism as well.

Recently, Beijing expelled journalists from the new york times, the wall street journal and the Washington Post.

Publications that have put out critical reports against the Communist party and now, China is using its propaganda machinery to counter the criticism over the coronavirus outbreak.

It is an attempt to turn the tide of negative press in its favour. 
&nbsp;

Why should we take China's propaganda push seriously? because the Communist Party does. In 2018, China spent more than six billion dollars to create a global media platform to spread its message.

Why should we take China's propaganda push seriously? because the Communist Party does. In 2018, China spent more than six billion dollars to create a global media platform to spread its message. Propaganda is an important tool to keep control in China. We have all heard how Beijing keeps tight control over the media at home. Now, it is expanding its propaganda machinery across the world. For the Communist Party, the medium doesn't matter as long as its propaganda reaches far and wide. The latest tool of delivery is a mobile app called "study the powerful country". This is a tool to teach the Xi Jinping thoughts, the policy and ideals of the Chinese president, that are now enshrined in China's constitution. Beijing has effective tools to control the narrative at home. It now wants the same power beyond its borders. China is now aggressively pushing its message on global social media websites. An investigation by ProPublica has exposed Beijing's propaganda machinery. Since 2019, this website has tracked more than 10 thousand suspected fake Twitter accounts. ProPublica says these accounts were involved in a coordinated influence campaign. On first impressions, these accounts look like any average social media. The fake profiles include a professor from North Carolina, a web designer in the United Kingdom and a business analyst from Australia. ProPublica found that all of them shared pro-China posts, repeatedly on their accounts. They are all cogs in China's propaganda machine. However, the campaign to win influence is not just online. China is trying to win over foreign journalists too. Reportedly, since 2016, the Chinese government has paid several foreign journalists including from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan to participate in a 10-month long program. Reportedly, the journalists stayed in plush residences in Beijing during their training. They were given free tours to different Chinese provinces. Even free language classes at the end of the program. China is not only trying to win more positive coverage, but it is also shutting down criticism as well. Recently, Beijing expelled journalists from the new york times, the wall street journal and the Washington Post. Publications that have put out critical reports against the Communist party and now, China is using its propaganda machinery to counter the criticism over the coronavirus outbreak. It is an attempt to turn the tide of negative press in its favour.

How Chinese propaganda factory has global franchises

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

More than 2.6 billion people are currently under lockdown, around one-third of the global population.

The reason behind this all: the coronavirus pandemic, which began in Wuhan, China.

Many researchers and analysts have reiterated that China has displayed grave negligence in handling the virus.

Recently, a faction within the Chinese Communist Party has&nbsp;displayed dissatisfaction over Xi Jinping’s response of the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-third-of-humanity-under-coronavirus-lockdown-288458" hreflang="en">One third of humanity under coronavirus lockdown</a>

Based on a message circulated on the popular Chinese platform “WeChat”, the bloc was ready for a revolt!

The open letter in question calls for a meeting of the politburo to assess Jinping’s performance.

The politburo comprises 25 individuals that run the Communist Party.

This faction against the Chinese president wants to reflect on "Xi's wrongs", and evaluate whether he should carry on as the leader of China.

However, challenging his authority is not that simple, for besides being the President of China, he serves as the Chief of the Communist Party. He additionally enjoys support among the political elite in China.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wuhan-coronavirus-china-sued-for-20-trillion-in-damages-gravitas-288321/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The man, who is referred to as the most powerful leader of China since Mao is facing backlash from within his party.

Over the last few weeks, China has worked hard to retain its image both globally and at home.

Earlier this month, Wuhan’s top party official came up with the idea of a “gratitude education programme”, centred around thanking Xi Jinping and The Communist Party for the efforts they have made to fight the coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-overtakes-china-virus-toll-with-3434-deaths-government-288448" hreflang="en">Spain overtakes China virus toll with 3,434 deaths: Government</a>

“We must through various channels carry out gratitude education among the citizens of the whole city as well as cadres”, the official had told a local newspaper.

The rationale behind this was to extend gratitude to Jinping and to the Communist Party.

However, the public reaction to the idea was not very nice. People immediately slammed the idea of this programme, with a local journalist asking the party official to first “educate himself”.

To avoid collateral damage, the Chinese authorities covered up the criticism and dropped the idea of the programme itself.

More than 2.6 billion people are currently under lockdown, around one-third of the global population. The reason behind this all: the coronavirus pandemic, which began in Wuhan, China.

More than 2.6 billion people are currently under lockdown, around one-third of the global population. The reason behind this all: the coronavirus pandemic, which began in Wuhan, China. Many researchers and analysts have reiterated that China has displayed grave negligence in handling the virus. Recently, a faction within the Chinese Communist Party has displayed dissatisfaction over Xi Jinping’s response of the virus. Also read: One third of humanity under coronavirus lockdown Based on a message circulated on the popular Chinese platform “WeChat”, the bloc was ready for a revolt! The open letter in question calls for a meeting of the politburo to assess Jinping’s performance. The politburo comprises 25 individuals that run the Communist Party. This faction against the Chinese president wants to reflect on "Xi's wrongs", and evaluate whether he should carry on as the leader of China. However, challenging his authority is not that simple, for besides being the President of China, he serves as the Chief of the Communist Party. He additionally enjoys support among the political elite in China. The man, who is referred to as the most powerful leader of China since Mao is facing backlash from within his party. Over the last few weeks, China has worked hard to retain its image both globally and at home. Earlier this month, Wuhan’s top party official came up with the idea of a “gratitude education programme”, centred around thanking Xi Jinping and The Communist Party for the efforts they have made to fight the coronavirus. Also read: Spain overtakes China virus toll with 3,434 deaths: Government “We must through various channels carry out gratitude education among the citizens of the whole city as well as cadres”, the official had told a local newspaper. The rationale behind this was to extend gratitude to Jinping and to the Communist Party. However, the public reaction to the idea was not very nice. People immediately slammed the idea of this programme, with a local journalist asking the party official to first “educate himself”. To avoid collateral damage, the Chinese authorities covered up the criticism and dropped the idea of the programme itself.

Is an anti-Jinping wave gaining traction in the Chinese Communist Party?

Anger is rising in Taiwan over China continuing to buzz the island with fighter jets and warships even as they both fight the global coronavirus pandemic.

The self-ruled democratic island has had to scramble its own fighter jets in response to recent Chinese manoeuvres, designed to show that Beijing's military might remains unbowed by the health crisis.

But the tactic is winning few friends among the Taiwanese.

"As the world grapples with the severity of the COVID19 pandemic, China's military manoeuvres around Taiwan have continued unabated," President Tsai Ing-wen said in a tweet late Tuesday accompanied by pictures of her visiting troops.

"Whether it's national defence or preventing the spread of disease, our armed forces remain as vigilant as ever," she added.

Beijing has ramped up drills around the island since Tsai was first elected in 2016 because she refuses to acknowledge its concept that Taiwan is part of "one China."

There has been little let up during the devastating coronavirus outbreak that began in China.

Taipei's defence ministry said four "targeted" drills have been conducted by China near its borders this year, which it said was "concrete evidence of provocations and threats".

Taiwan ran an exercise with its own F16 fighter jets on Tuesday in response.

"China continues the drills to show to the world, as well as to assure its people, that it has maintained military strength and defence abilities in the midst of an epidemic," Lin Ying-yu, a military analyst at National Chung Cheng University, told AFP.

The incursions have sparked anger on Taiwanese social media with some even calling for Chinese jets to be shot down.

"I firmly support to the government to contain the outbreak of the China/Wuhan pneumonia and resist the harassment of the communists' military," read one message left on Tsai's Facebook page.

A Chinese military jet briefly crossed the median line separating the two sides in February, less than a month after Tsai was re-elected in a landslide.

The coronavirus has killed more than 3,000 people in China. But despite its close proximity, Taiwan has just 235 cases and two deaths.

The island has been held up as a model for how to respond to the pandemic, even though Beijing ensures it is frozen out of global bodies such as the World Health Organization.

"Taiwan is recognised internationally for its epidemic prevention that shows democratic Taiwan is beating authoritarian China and this is unacceptable for China," said Wang Ting-yu, a lawmaker in Tsai's ruling party.

China has lashed out at Taiwan for "using the outbreak to promote independence" because Taipei has signed bilateral agreements with countries, including the US, on epidemic prevention and also sought to join the WHO.

Beijing still claims the self-ruling island as part of its territory awaiting reunification, by force if necessary, even though the two sides have been ruled separately for more than seven decades.

Anger is rising in Taiwan over China continuing to buzz the island with fighter jets and warships even as they both fight the global coronavirus pandemic. The self-ruled democratic island has had to scramble its own fighter jets in response to recent Chinese manoeuvres, designed to show that Beijing's military might remains unbowed by the health crisis.

Anger is rising in Taiwan over China continuing to buzz the island with fighter jets and warships even as they both fight the global coronavirus pandemic. The self-ruled democratic island has had to scramble its own fighter jets in response to recent Chinese manoeuvres, designed to show that Beijing's military might remains unbowed by the health crisis. But the tactic is winning few friends among the Taiwanese. "As the world grapples with the severity of the COVID19 pandemic, China's military manoeuvres around Taiwan have continued unabated," President Tsai Ing-wen said in a tweet late Tuesday accompanied by pictures of her visiting troops. "Whether it's national defence or preventing the spread of disease, our armed forces remain as vigilant as ever," she added. Beijing has ramped up drills around the island since Tsai was first elected in 2016 because she refuses to acknowledge its concept that Taiwan is part of "one China." There has been little let up during the devastating coronavirus outbreak that began in China. Taipei's defence ministry said four "targeted" drills have been conducted by China near its borders this year, which it said was "concrete evidence of provocations and threats". Taiwan ran an exercise with its own F16 fighter jets on Tuesday in response. "China continues the drills to show to the world, as well as to assure its people, that it has maintained military strength and defence abilities in the midst of an epidemic," Lin Ying-yu, a military analyst at National Chung Cheng University, told AFP. The incursions have sparked anger on Taiwanese social media with some even calling for Chinese jets to be shot down. "I firmly support to the government to contain the outbreak of the China/Wuhan pneumonia and resist the harassment of the communists' military," read one message left on Tsai's Facebook page. A Chinese military jet briefly crossed the median line separating the two sides in February, less than a month after Tsai was re-elected in a landslide. The coronavirus has killed more than 3,000 people in China. But despite its close proximity, Taiwan has just 235 cases and two deaths. The island has been held up as a model for how to respond to the pandemic, even though Beijing ensures it is frozen out of global bodies such as the World Health Organization. "Taiwan is recognised internationally for its epidemic prevention that shows democratic Taiwan is beating authoritarian China and this is unacceptable for China," said Wang Ting-yu, a lawmaker in Tsai's ruling party. China has lashed out at Taiwan for "using the outbreak to promote independence" because Taipei has signed bilateral agreements with countries, including the US, on epidemic prevention and also sought to join the WHO. Beijing still claims the self-ruling island as part of its territory awaiting reunification, by force if necessary, even though the two sides have been ruled separately for more than seven decades.

Taiwan anger over China military drills during virus outbreak

China has announced that it will expel American journalists from three major US newspapers, in one of the communist government's biggest crackdowns on the foreign press and escalating a bitter row with Washington.

The decision, effective immediately, will require US nationals working for the New York Times, the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal to return their press accreditation within 10 days, if their credentials expire before the end of 2020.

The move came as the superpowers also feuded over the coronavirus pandemic, with US President Donald Trump provocatively branding it the "Chinese virus".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mind-your-own-business-china-to-trump-after-he-calls-covid-19-chinese-virus-287042">Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus'</a>

China said the expulsions were in retaliation for Washington's decision to cut the number of Chinese nationals allowed to work for its state-run media on American soil.

"In recent years, the US government has placed unwarranted restrictions on Chinese media agencies and personnel in the US, purposely made things difficult for their normal reporting assignments, and subjected them to growing discrimination and politically-motivated oppression," China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

The expulsions "are legitimate and justified self-defence in every sense,'' it added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-using-visas-as-weapons-against-foreign-press-report-283792">Chinese authorities using visas as weapons against foreign press: Report</a>

It said the journalists at the three newspapers must hand back their credentials within 10 days, and highlighted they would also not be able to work in the semi-autonomous cities of Hong Kong and Macau.

Beijing also ordered the papers, as well as Voice of America and Time magazine, to declare in writing their staff, finances, operations and real estate in China rules similar to those recently imposed on Chinese state media by Washington.

The foreign ministry said the measures "are entirely necessary and reciprocal" moves that China "is compelled to take in response to the unreasonable oppression the Chinese media organizations experience in the US".

Watch: China revokes 3 American Journalists of Wall Street Journal

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-revokes-3-american-journalists-of-wall-street-journal-281718/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The row was ignited last month when the US reclassified Chinese state-run media operating in the United States as foreign missions.

China then expelled three other Wall Street Journal reporters, two Americans and one Australian, over what it deemed a racist headline by the US newspaper.

Those were the first outright expulsions by China of a foreign journalist since 1998, according to the Foreign Correspondents' Club of China.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said following the latest move against the three newspapers that China was wrong to equate state-run media, which answer to Beijing, and independent US news outlets that can freely report and ask critical questions.

"I regret China's decision today to further foreclose the world's ability to conduct the free press operations that, frankly, would be really good for the Chinese people in these incredibly challenging global times, where more information, more transparency are what will save lives," Pompeo said in a statment on Wednesday.

China has announced that it will expel American journalists from three major US newspapers, in one of the communist government's biggest crackdowns on the foreign press and escalating a bitter row with Washington.

China has announced that it will expel American journalists from three major US newspapers, in one of the communist government's biggest crackdowns on the foreign press and escalating a bitter row with Washington. The decision, effective immediately, will require US nationals working for the New York Times, the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal to return their press accreditation within 10 days, if their credentials expire before the end of 2020. The move came as the superpowers also feuded over the coronavirus pandemic, with US President Donald Trump provocatively branding it the "Chinese virus". Also read: Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus' China said the expulsions were in retaliation for Washington's decision to cut the number of Chinese nationals allowed to work for its state-run media on American soil. "In recent years, the US government has placed unwarranted restrictions on Chinese media agencies and personnel in the US, purposely made things difficult for their normal reporting assignments, and subjected them to growing discrimination and politically-motivated oppression," China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. The expulsions "are legitimate and justified self-defence in every sense,'' it added. Also read: Chinese authorities using visas as weapons against foreign press: Report It said the journalists at the three newspapers must hand back their credentials within 10 days, and highlighted they would also not be able to work in the semi-autonomous cities of Hong Kong and Macau. Beijing also ordered the papers, as well as Voice of America and Time magazine, to declare in writing their staff, finances, operations and real estate in China rules similar to those recently imposed on Chinese state media by Washington. The foreign ministry said the measures "are entirely necessary and reciprocal" moves that China "is compelled to take in response to the unreasonable oppression the Chinese media organizations experience in the US". Watch: China revokes 3 American Journalists of Wall Street Journal The row was ignited last month when the US reclassified Chinese state-run media operating in the United States as foreign missions. China then expelled three other Wall Street Journal reporters, two Americans and one Australian, over what it deemed a racist headline by the US newspaper. Those were the first outright expulsions by China of a foreign journalist since 1998, according to the Foreign Correspondents' Club of China. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said following the latest move against the three newspapers that China was wrong to equate state-run media, which answer to Beijing, and independent US news outlets that can freely report and ask critical questions. "I regret China's decision today to further foreclose the world's ability to conduct the free press operations that, frankly, would be really good for the Chinese people in these incredibly challenging global times, where more information, more transparency are what will save lives," Pompeo said in a statment on Wednesday.

China to expel US journalists, escalates bitter row with Washington

A Chinese government campaign to cast doubt on the origin of the coronavirus pandemic is fuelling a row with the United States, with a Beijing official promoting conspiracy theories and Washington calling it the "Wuhan virus".

The spat comes as China tries to deflect blame for the contagion and reframe itself as a country that took decisive steps to buy the world time by placing huge swathes of its population under quarantine.

With cases falling in China and soaring abroad, Beijing is now rejecting the widely held assessment that the city of Wuhan is the birthplace of the outbreak.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-can-live-in-infected-people-for-weeks-longer-than-first-thought-286046">Coronavirus can live in infected people for weeks longer than first thought</a>

Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian went a step further on Thursday, saying on Twitter that "it might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan," without providing evidence.

He doubled down on his claim on Friday by posting a link to an article from a website known for publishing conspiracy theories about the 9/11 attacks.

Censors usually vigilant against rumours have also allowed Chinese social media users to spread similar claims about the US being behind the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-governments-across-the-world-shutting-down-offices-for-disinfection-286000">Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection</a>

A video showing a US health official saying some flu victims were posthumously diagnosed as having had COVID-19 was among the top searched items on China's Twitter-like Weibo this week, with some users saying it was evidence the virus originated in the US.

Zhao posted the clip on Twitter.

Dali Yang, a political science professor at the University of Chicago, said he believes Zhao was "tweeting in his official capacity".

Also read: <a href="wionews.com/world/covid-19-brazilian-government-aide-who-met-us-president-donald-trump-tests-positive-286050">COVID-19: Brazilian government aide who met US President Donald Trump tests positive</a>

China's intention in promoting the conspiracy theory is "to divert from domestic discontent" over the handling of the outbreak, which has killed more than 3,100 people in the country.

The push to question the origin of the disease contradicts China's own initial assessment about the source of the virus, which has now killed nearly 5,000 people worldwide.

Gao Fu, head of China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said in January "we now know the source of the virus is wild animals sold at the seafood market" in Wuhan.

Chinese authorities themselves saw Wuhan and the rest of Hubei province as a threat as they placed the region of 56 million people under strict quarantine to contain the epidemic.

But Beijing began sowing doubts in late February, when Zhong Nanshan, a respected expert affiliated with the National Health Commission, told reporters "the epidemic first appeared in China, but didn't necessarily originate in China."

Scientists, however, have long suspected that the virus jumped from an animal at the Wuhan market to a human before spreading globally.

The World Health Organization has said that while the exact path the virus took between its animal source and humans is still unclear, COVID-19 was "unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019".

Christl Donnelly, a professor of statistical epidemiology at Imperial College London, said genetic analysis of coronavirus samples collected from around the world shows a common ancestor in China,&nbsp;

"This is not in any way blaming a particular country," she told AFP.

The United States, meanwhile, has angered China by using language to directly link the virus to the country.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called it the "Wuhan virus", prompting China's foreign ministry to reject the term as "despicable" and "disrespecting science".

Despite the protests, US President Donald Trump started a televised address to his nation on Wednesday by speaking about the outbreak "that started in China".

The WHO warns against naming infectious diseases in a way that encourages discrimination against ethnic groups.

The Trump administration's emphasis on the virus' origin in China is "part of his dog-whistling politics," said Australian National University researcher Yun Jiang.

Robert O'Brien, the US national security adviser, on Wednesday insisted that the virus originated in Wuhan.

Blaming the pandemic on an initial lack of cooperation from Chinese officials and a cover-up when the outbreak first emerged, O'Brien said this had "cost the world community two months to respond" to the threat.

Beijing called his remarks "extremely immoral and also irresponsible".

China's objections have extended to criticising anyone suggesting the virus originated in the country.

Zhao said last week that journalists using the term "China virus" was "suggesting its origin without any supporting facts or evidence" and had "ulterior motives."

Jiang, the researcher, said that "by sowing doubts into people's mind about where the virus originated, they're trying to deflect part of the blame for the outbreak".

A Chinese government campaign to cast doubt on the origin of the coronavirus pandemic is fuelling a row with the United States, with a Beijing official promoting conspiracy theories and Washington calling it the "Wuhan virus".

A Chinese government campaign to cast doubt on the origin of the coronavirus pandemic is fuelling a row with the United States, with a Beijing official promoting conspiracy theories and Washington calling it the "Wuhan virus". The spat comes as China tries to deflect blame for the contagion and reframe itself as a country that took decisive steps to buy the world time by placing huge swathes of its population under quarantine. With cases falling in China and soaring abroad, Beijing is now rejecting the widely held assessment that the city of Wuhan is the birthplace of the outbreak. Also read: Coronavirus can live in infected people for weeks longer than first thought Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian went a step further on Thursday, saying on Twitter that "it might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan," without providing evidence. He doubled down on his claim on Friday by posting a link to an article from a website known for publishing conspiracy theories about the 9/11 attacks. Censors usually vigilant against rumours have also allowed Chinese social media users to spread similar claims about the US being behind the virus. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection A video showing a US health official saying some flu victims were posthumously diagnosed as having had COVID-19 was among the top searched items on China's Twitter-like Weibo this week, with some users saying it was evidence the virus originated in the US. Zhao posted the clip on Twitter. Dali Yang, a political science professor at the University of Chicago, said he believes Zhao was "tweeting in his official capacity". Also read: COVID-19: Brazilian government aide who met US President Donald Trump tests positive China's intention in promoting the conspiracy theory is "to divert from domestic discontent" over the handling of the outbreak, which has killed more than 3,100 people in the country. The push to question the origin of the disease contradicts China's own initial assessment about the source of the virus, which has now killed nearly 5,000 people worldwide. Gao Fu, head of China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said in January "we now know the source of the virus is wild animals sold at the seafood market" in Wuhan. Chinese authorities themselves saw Wuhan and the rest of Hubei province as a threat as they placed the region of 56 million people under strict quarantine to contain the epidemic. But Beijing began sowing doubts in late February, when Zhong Nanshan, a respected expert affiliated with the National Health Commission, told reporters "the epidemic first appeared in China, but didn't necessarily originate in China." Scientists, however, have long suspected that the virus jumped from an animal at the Wuhan market to a human before spreading globally. The World Health Organization has said that while the exact path the virus took between its animal source and humans is still unclear, COVID-19 was "unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019". Christl Donnelly, a professor of statistical epidemiology at Imperial College London, said genetic analysis of coronavirus samples collected from around the world shows a common ancestor in China, "This is not in any way blaming a particular country," she told AFP. The United States, meanwhile, has angered China by using language to directly link the virus to the country. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called it the "Wuhan virus", prompting China's foreign ministry to reject the term as "despicable" and "disrespecting science". Despite the protests, US President Donald Trump started a televised address to his nation on Wednesday by speaking about the outbreak "that started in China". The WHO warns against naming infectious diseases in a way that encourages discrimination against ethnic groups. The Trump administration's emphasis on the virus' origin in China is "part of his dog-whistling politics," said Australian National University researcher Yun Jiang. Robert O'Brien, the US national security adviser, on Wednesday insisted that the virus originated in Wuhan. Blaming the pandemic on an initial lack of cooperation from Chinese officials and a cover-up when the outbreak first emerged, O'Brien said this had "cost the world community two months to respond" to the threat. Beijing called his remarks "extremely immoral and also irresponsible". China's objections have extended to criticising anyone suggesting the virus originated in the country. Zhao said last week that journalists using the term "China virus" was "suggesting its origin without any supporting facts or evidence" and had "ulterior motives." Jiang, the researcher, said that "by sowing doubts into people's mind about where the virus originated, they're trying to deflect part of the blame for the outbreak".

Blame game for pandemic: China, US spar over origin of coronavirus

President Xi Jinping visited the city of Wuhan, the centre of the coronavirus outbreak, sending a message that Beijing has the situation under control. His visit comes as China recorded its lowest number of infections, just 19 on Tuesday, all in Wuhan apart from two who had arrived from overseas. Watch WION Ground Report:

WION Ground Report: Xi Jinping visits Wuhan since Coronavirus outbreak

Xi Jinping paid his first visit to Wuhan after the coronavirus outbreak. The Chinese President's visit was supposed to signal that the health crisis in under control. But, did the Wuhan tour really achieve its purpose? This report tells you more.

Coronavirus: Xi Jinping visits Wuhan for the first time | Gravitas

The disease’s spread in China cast scrutiny on Xi’s leadership, as he was conspicuously absent from the public eye during the early days of the crisis.

Xi Jinping visits Wuhan as COVID-19 outbreak fades

Xi Jinping's first Wuhan visit since Coronavirus Outbreak

China should replace its ambassador in the Czech Republic after the Chinese embassy sent a threatening letter to Czech authorities, Prime Minister Andrej Babis said, a position that may further strain relations between the two countries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-coronavirus-xi-jinping-pays-first-visit-to-virus-epicentre-wuhan-285400" hreflang="en">China coronavirus: Xi Jinping pays first visit to virus epicentre Wuhan</a>

In January, China's embassy in Prague said in a letter sent to the Czech president's office that Beijing would retaliate against Czech companies operating in China if a senior Czech lawmaker went ahead with a planned visit to Taiwan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-firm-develops-system-to-recognise-faces-behind-coronavirus-masks-285231" hreflang="en">China firm develops system to recognise faces behind coronavirus masks</a>

The January&nbsp;10 letters suggested that Czech companies operating in mainland China, such as the Volkswagen subsidiary Skoda Auto and lender Home Credit Group, would suffer if then-Senate speaker Jaroslav Kubera visited the island.

Kubera died before he could make the trip. His successor, Milos Vystrcil, is likely to push for China to replace the ambassador, and Babis would support such a demand, Czech Television reported.

"This man is quite distinctive, and what he has written, that is absolutely unacceptable, we must reject that," Czech Television quoted Babis as saying.

Four top Czech officials, including President Milos Zeman, who has pushed for closer ties with China in recent years, will meet on Wednesday for a regular debate on foreign policy, where they are expected to address the matter.

Diplomatic ties between the two countries cooled last year when city authorities in Prague showed support for Tibet and demanded changes to an intercity partnership agreement with Beijing over a reference to China's policy on Taiwan.

China quit the agreement and Prague instead entered a partnership with Taipei, the capital of Taiwan. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has pushed for a "one country, two systems" model, which Taiwan rejects. Babis's government has repeatedly said it adheres to the one-China policy.

In a statement on Tuesday, Taiwan's foreign ministry said that despite China's threats it would continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation with the Czech Republic.

An earlier dent in bilateral relations came in December 2018 when the Czech cyber-security watchdog warned about the risks of using network technology provided by Chinese telecoms equipment makers Huawei and ZTE.

China should replace its ambassador in the Czech Republic after the Chinese embassy sent a threatening letter to Czech authorities, Prime Minister Andrej Babis said, a position that may further strain relations between the two countries.

China should replace its ambassador in the Czech Republic after the Chinese embassy sent a threatening letter to Czech authorities, Prime Minister Andrej Babis said, a position that may further strain relations between the two countries. Also read: China coronavirus: Xi Jinping pays first visit to virus epicentre Wuhan In January, China's embassy in Prague said in a letter sent to the Czech president's office that Beijing would retaliate against Czech companies operating in China if a senior Czech lawmaker went ahead with a planned visit to Taiwan. Also read: China firm develops system to recognise faces behind coronavirus masks The January 10 letters suggested that Czech companies operating in mainland China, such as the Volkswagen subsidiary Skoda Auto and lender Home Credit Group, would suffer if then-Senate speaker Jaroslav Kubera visited the island. Kubera died before he could make the trip. His successor, Milos Vystrcil, is likely to push for China to replace the ambassador, and Babis would support such a demand, Czech Television reported. "This man is quite distinctive, and what he has written, that is absolutely unacceptable, we must reject that," Czech Television quoted Babis as saying. Four top Czech officials, including President Milos Zeman, who has pushed for closer ties with China in recent years, will meet on Wednesday for a regular debate on foreign policy, where they are expected to address the matter. Diplomatic ties between the two countries cooled last year when city authorities in Prague showed support for Tibet and demanded changes to an intercity partnership agreement with Beijing over a reference to China's policy on Taiwan. China quit the agreement and Prague instead entered a partnership with Taipei, the capital of Taiwan. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has pushed for a "one country, two systems" model, which Taiwan rejects. Babis's government has repeatedly said it adheres to the one-China policy. In a statement on Tuesday, Taiwan's foreign ministry said that despite China's threats it would continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation with the Czech Republic. An earlier dent in bilateral relations came in December 2018 when the Czech cyber-security watchdog warned about the risks of using network technology provided by Chinese telecoms equipment makers Huawei and ZTE.

Czech prime minister says China's ambassador should be replaced

China will step up policy adjustments to help cushion the blow on the economy from a coronavirus outbreak that authorities are still trying to control, President Xi Jinping was quoted as saying on Sunday.

The situation is showing a positive trend after arduous efforts but there is no room for "weariness and relaxed mentality" among officials, state television quoted him as saying.

"At present, the epidemic situation is still severe and complex, and prevention and control work is in the most difficult and critical stage," Xi said.

"The outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia will inevitably have a relatively big impact on the economy and society," Xi said, adding that the impact would be short-term and controllable.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-is-chinas-biggest-health-emergency-president-xi-jinping-282217">Coronavirus is China's 'biggest health emergency' - President Xi Jinping</a>

The outbreak is one of the most serious public health crises to confront Chinese leaders in decades.

"For us, this is a crisis and is also a big test," Xi said.

Chinese policymakers have implemented a raft of measures to support an economy jolted by the virus, which is expected to have a devastating impact on first-quarter growth.

Low-risk provinces should focus on restoring work and production in an all-round way, provinces with medium-level risks should aim for an orderly work resumption, while high-risk regions should focus on epidemic controls, Xi said.

The government would step up policy support to help achieve economic and social development targets for 2020, Xi said.

China would maintain a prudent monetary policy and roll out new policy steps in a timely way, he said, adding the government would also study and roll out phased tax cuts to help tide small firms over difficulties.

The government would also take steps to support flexible employment and help college graduates to find jobs, Xi added.

China will step up policy adjustments to help cushion the blow on the economy from a coronavirus outbreak that authorities are still trying to control, President Xi Jinping was quoted as saying on Sunday.

China will step up policy adjustments to help cushion the blow on the economy from a coronavirus outbreak that authorities are still trying to control, President Xi Jinping was quoted as saying on Sunday. The situation is showing a positive trend after arduous efforts but there is no room for "weariness and relaxed mentality" among officials, state television quoted him as saying. "At present, the epidemic situation is still severe and complex, and prevention and control work is in the most difficult and critical stage," Xi said. "The outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia will inevitably have a relatively big impact on the economy and society," Xi said, adding that the impact would be short-term and controllable. Also read: Coronavirus is China's 'biggest health emergency' - President Xi Jinping The outbreak is one of the most serious public health crises to confront Chinese leaders in decades. "For us, this is a crisis and is also a big test," Xi said. Chinese policymakers have implemented a raft of measures to support an economy jolted by the virus, which is expected to have a devastating impact on first-quarter growth. Low-risk provinces should focus on restoring work and production in an all-round way, provinces with medium-level risks should aim for an orderly work resumption, while high-risk regions should focus on epidemic controls, Xi said. The government would step up policy support to help achieve economic and social development targets for 2020, Xi said. China would maintain a prudent monetary policy and roll out new policy steps in a timely way, he said, adding the government would also study and roll out phased tax cuts to help tide small firms over difficulties. The government would also take steps to support flexible employment and help college graduates to find jobs, Xi added.

China braces for inevitable big hit to economy from coronavirus: Xi

Chinese President Xi Jinping has written a letter expressing thanks to the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation for the organisation's "generosity" and support tackling a deadly virus epidemic, state media said Saturday.

The outbreak of the new COVID-19 strain has claimed 2,345 lives in mainland China and infected more than 76,000 people, with cases in more than 25 countries.

Earlier this month the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation committed up to $100 million for the global response to the outbreak.

"I deeply appreciate the act of generosity of the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation and your letter of solidarity to the Chinese people at such an important moment," Xi wrote in the letter, according to official news agency Xinhua.

China is at a "critical moment" in the fight against the outbreak, he said.

Millions remain under lockdown in central Hubei province, where the virus emerged in December, although new hotspots were found in several prisons and hospitals on Friday.

Nearly 400 new cases were reported nationwide in China on Saturday -- less than half the number of new cases the previous day.

"We have rallied the whole nation and adopted a string of unprecedented measures to contain and mitigate the epidemic and treat the sick," Xi wrote.&nbsp;

"These extraordinary measures are delivering substantial results," he said.

The Gates Foundation said the funding will be used to strengthen detection, isolation and treatment efforts, including protecting at-risk populations and developing vaccines and diagnostics.

The foundation said it would direct $20 million to organizations like the World Health Organization, the US Centers for Disease Control and Protection, the National Health Commission of China and the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has written a letter expressing thanks to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for the organisation's "generosity" and support tackling a deadly virus epidemic, state media said Saturday.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has written a letter expressing thanks to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for the organisation's "generosity" and support tackling a deadly virus epidemic, state media said Saturday. The outbreak of the new COVID-19 strain has claimed 2,345 lives in mainland China and infected more than 76,000 people, with cases in more than 25 countries. Earlier this month the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation committed up to $100 million for the global response to the outbreak. "I deeply appreciate the act of generosity of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and your letter of solidarity to the Chinese people at such an important moment," Xi wrote in the letter, according to official news agency Xinhua. China is at a "critical moment" in the fight against the outbreak, he said. Millions remain under lockdown in central Hubei province, where the virus emerged in December, although new hotspots were found in several prisons and hospitals on Friday. Nearly 400 new cases were reported nationwide in China on Saturday -- less than half the number of new cases the previous day. "We have rallied the whole nation and adopted a string of unprecedented measures to contain and mitigate the epidemic and treat the sick," Xi wrote. "These extraordinary measures are delivering substantial results," he said. The Gates Foundation said the funding will be used to strengthen detection, isolation and treatment efforts, including protecting at-risk populations and developing vaccines and diagnostics. The foundation said it would direct $20 million to organizations like the World Health Organization, the US Centers for Disease Control and Protection, the National Health Commission of China and the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

China's Xi writes thank you note to Bill Gates for virus pledge

By Rowan Callick

Brand “People’s Republic of China” is wobbling, as if the massive picture of Mao Zedong in Tiananmen Square was swaying with an earthquake tremor. But it can only actually fall if pushed from inside.

The handling of the coronavirus epidemic is undoubtedly sapping confidence in the Communist party and its formerly all-conquering general secretary, Xi Jinping.

Any country or ruling party would struggle if faced with a similarly massive challenge – exacerbated by the great annual domestic migration for Lunar New Year.

But the party and its leader shoulder especially great ambitions of entering a “new era” created by Xi to “realise the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.”

National elders selected Xi as a leader in 2012 to purge corruption and purify the party. He has replaced most senior officials, including in the People’s Liberation Army, with those who supported his rise through the provincial ranks in Fujian and Zhejiang.

Xi has restructured the party, personalised and centralised power. Leveraging the anti-corruption campaign, he has also built the central party’s vast surveillance and control powers.

Losing the ‘mandate of heaven’

The big question now is how this renovated party structure is holding up against the appalling coronavirus epidemic. Particularly as it compounds an economic slowdown already exacerbated by the trade-and-tech war with the US and Beijing’s struggles to subdue its troubled borderlands in Xinjiang and Hong Kong.

It would seem logical that since Xi claims all the glory for China’s economic rise and global influence, he would bear the responsibility for disasters, as well.

This would fit with the old imperial danger of losing the “mandate of heaven” – the notion that only a righteous ruler would retain the approval of the Gods.

But there’s a long history in China of people blaming local officials for problems, while retaining a belief in the power of the emperor or general secretary to resolve them. Hundreds of thousands still annually petition the central party leadership about regional and personal wrongs.

Many are still assessing where to pin the blame for the current crisis and are reluctant to accept what they are told officially. People are adroitly downloading and re-posting censored messages on social media, causing the “net police” constant whack-a-mole grief.

This is why the initial failings of the Wuhan authorities, which likely enabled the virus to spread rapidly, have aroused widespread anger in China. And why many rightly dubbed the whistleblowing doctor Li Wenliang, who died from the disease after being hauled in by police, a martyr.

In recent days, the central government has also blamed local authorities, replacing the party secretary in Hubei province. However, public anger and distrust of the authorities still burns.

Crises like the melamine-laced milk powder scandal that sickened more than 300,000 babies in 2008 and now coronavirus underline a basic reality: for all the vast sums spent on security in China, it remains fundamentally elusive for most people.

Alistair Nicholas, a Sydney-based business consultant with extensive China experience, told me his contacts in China have said, "&nbsp;The poor initial handling of the crisis by the Chinese authorities has ‘left a bitter taste in the mouths of many Chinese.’ Trust with their own government has been broken and those who can leave."

With hundreds of millions still staying largely at home, staring at smartphones, such sentiments seep out everywhere. 
 
Reform remains unlikely 
 
Xi will, of course, be aware it was in Wuchang, a district of Wuhan, where a rebellion began in 1911 that triggered the downfall of the Qing Dynasty.

Today, however, the extent of China’s online and offline controls almost rule out change – or even threat – coming from the “masses”.

They are not trusted to participate in their own governance. They are given no scope to organise. Since seizing power in 1949, the party has drawn a line under further revolutions.

In the last few days, two figures named Xu have challenged Xi, and suffered the consequences.

Xu Zhiyong, a civil rights activist and academic who called on Xi to resign over the virus response, has been arrested by security officials in Guangzhou.

And Xu Zhangrun, a famous law professor at Tsinghua University, has been placed under effective house arrest after posting a lengthy critique that said China’s political system.

There has also been sharp criticism of China’s response to the crisis overseas, but this, too, carries limited weight in Beijing.

Instead, China highlights and relishes the applause its governance receives, especially from agencies like the World Health Organisation. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus recently thanked China for its “transparency” and heaped particular praise on Xi for his “detailed knowledge of the outbreak”.

There are, of course, questions about when Xi’s knowledge of the outbreak actually began.

But rather than claiming ignorance of the severity of the outbreak at the outset, Xi has decided to take a different course. He’s persisting with his customary claim of omniscience and blaming local officials, while insisting China’s “war” against the virus has been valiant, as attested by the WHO and other international voices.

Who is going to take credible issue with that?

In today’s China, it is not intellectuals or the general public, but the 90 million party members who will determine whether this epidemic demands substantial change.

And that will ultimately depend on the tiny circle of elite cadres surrounding Xi. Unless a convincing crack appears at the top, the crucial band of middle-ranking party managers will sit tight.

‘Not just a problem for China, but for the world’

The personalisation of the system, combined with Xi’s reluctance to groom a successor is, however, steadily raising party anxiety about the future.

Xi said recently, " The long-term sound fundamentals of our economy haven’t changed … The impact of the outbreak will only be short-term."

But the rippling effects of coronavirus threaten to derail Xi’s vision of “rejuvenation” - a Chinese century of power and affluence. Economists ponder whether China will now spring the “middle-income trap” that has restrained the prosperity of other nations, risking a failure to “get rich before it grows old.”

The almost certain postponement of next month’s National People’s Congress is a further mark of a government in crisis. Despite making good health sense, this move would create political risk by acknowledging that even pillar state events are now eluding Xi’s control.

Once eventually summoned, though, the NPC delegates will be expected to cheer to the red rafters Xi’s victory in the “People’s War” against coronavirus.

But what does it mean, asks Jude Blanchette, who holds the Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, for Xi to dominate a party and government, "That appear unable to confront, diagnose, and effectively overcome complex domestic and international challenges? That’s not just a problem for China, but for the world."

Or as the stood-down law professor Xu Zhangrun asks, can a regime that cannot treat its own people well, treat the world well?

(Rowan Callick is Industry Fellow, Griffith University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-vulnerable-is-xi-jinping-over-coronavirus-in-todays-china-there-are-few-to-hold-him-to-account-131760">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

By Rowan Callick Brand “People’s Republic of China” is wobbling, as if the massive picture of Mao Zedong in Tiananmen Square was swaying with an earthquake tremor.

By Rowan Callick Brand “People’s Republic of China” is wobbling, as if the massive picture of Mao Zedong in Tiananmen Square was swaying with an earthquake tremor. But it can only actually fall if pushed from inside. The handling of the coronavirus epidemic is undoubtedly sapping confidence in the Communist party and its formerly all-conquering general secretary, Xi Jinping. Any country or ruling party would struggle if faced with a similarly massive challenge – exacerbated by the great annual domestic migration for Lunar New Year. But the party and its leader shoulder especially great ambitions of entering a “new era” created by Xi to “realise the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.” National elders selected Xi as a leader in 2012 to purge corruption and purify the party. He has replaced most senior officials, including in the People’s Liberation Army, with those who supported his rise through the provincial ranks in Fujian and Zhejiang. Xi has restructured the party, personalised and centralised power. Leveraging the anti-corruption campaign, he has also built the central party’s vast surveillance and control powers. Losing the ‘mandate of heaven’ The big question now is how this renovated party structure is holding up against the appalling coronavirus epidemic. Particularly as it compounds an economic slowdown already exacerbated by the trade-and-tech war with the US and Beijing’s struggles to subdue its troubled borderlands in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. It would seem logical that since Xi claims all the glory for China’s economic rise and global influence, he would bear the responsibility for disasters, as well. This would fit with the old imperial danger of losing the “mandate of heaven” – the notion that only a righteous ruler would retain the approval of the Gods. But there’s a long history in China of people blaming local officials for problems, while retaining a belief in the power of the emperor or general secretary to resolve them. Hundreds of thousands still annually petition the central party leadership about regional and personal wrongs. Many are still assessing where to pin the blame for the current crisis and are reluctant to accept what they are told officially. People are adroitly downloading and re-posting censored messages on social media, causing the “net police” constant whack-a-mole grief. This is why the initial failings of the Wuhan authorities, which likely enabled the virus to spread rapidly, have aroused widespread anger in China. And why many rightly dubbed the whistleblowing doctor Li Wenliang, who died from the disease after being hauled in by police, a martyr. In recent days, the central government has also blamed local authorities, replacing the party secretary in Hubei province. However, public anger and distrust of the authorities still burns. Crises like the melamine-laced milk powder scandal that sickened more than 300,000 babies in 2008 and now coronavirus underline a basic reality: for all the vast sums spent on security in China, it remains fundamentally elusive for most people. Alistair Nicholas, a Sydney-based business consultant with extensive China experience, told me his contacts in China have said, " The poor initial handling of the crisis by the Chinese authorities has ‘left a bitter taste in the mouths of many Chinese.’ Trust with their own government has been broken and those who can leave." With hundreds of millions still staying largely at home, staring at smartphones, such sentiments seep out everywhere. Reform remains unlikely Xi will, of course, be aware it was in Wuchang, a district of Wuhan, where a rebellion began in 1911 that triggered the downfall of the Qing Dynasty. Today, however, the extent of China’s online and offline controls almost rule out change – or even threat – coming from the “masses”. They are not trusted to participate in their own governance. They are given no scope to organise. Since seizing power in 1949, the party has drawn a line under further revolutions. In the last few days, two figures named Xu have challenged Xi, and suffered the consequences. Xu Zhiyong, a civil rights activist and academic who called on Xi to resign over the virus response, has been arrested by security officials in Guangzhou. And Xu Zhangrun, a famous law professor at Tsinghua University, has been placed under effective house arrest after posting a lengthy critique that said China’s political system. There has also been sharp criticism of China’s response to the crisis overseas, but this, too, carries limited weight in Beijing. Instead, China highlights and relishes the applause its governance receives, especially from agencies like the World Health Organisation. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus recently thanked China for its “transparency” and heaped particular praise on Xi for his “detailed knowledge of the outbreak”. There are, of course, questions about when Xi’s knowledge of the outbreak actually began. But rather than claiming ignorance of the severity of the outbreak at the outset, Xi has decided to take a different course. He’s persisting with his customary claim of omniscience and blaming local officials, while insisting China’s “war” against the virus has been valiant, as attested by the WHO and other international voices. Who is going to take credible issue with that? In today’s China, it is not intellectuals or the general public, but the 90 million party members who will determine whether this epidemic demands substantial change. And that will ultimately depend on the tiny circle of elite cadres surrounding Xi. Unless a convincing crack appears at the top, the crucial band of middle-ranking party managers will sit tight. ‘Not just a problem for China, but for the world’ The personalisation of the system, combined with Xi’s reluctance to groom a successor is, however, steadily raising party anxiety about the future. Xi said recently, " The long-term sound fundamentals of our economy haven’t changed … The impact of the outbreak will only be short-term." But the rippling effects of coronavirus threaten to derail Xi’s vision of “rejuvenation” - a Chinese century of power and affluence. Economists ponder whether China will now spring the “middle-income trap” that has restrained the prosperity of other nations, risking a failure to “get rich before it grows old.” The almost certain postponement of next month’s National People’s Congress is a further mark of a government in crisis. Despite making good health sense, this move would create political risk by acknowledging that even pillar state events are now eluding Xi’s control. Once eventually summoned, though, the NPC delegates will be expected to cheer to the red rafters Xi’s victory in the “People’s War” against coronavirus. But what does it mean, asks Jude Blanchette, who holds the Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, for Xi to dominate a party and government, "That appear unable to confront, diagnose, and effectively overcome complex domestic and international challenges? That’s not just a problem for China, but for the world." Or as the stood-down law professor Xu Zhangrun asks, can a regime that cannot treat its own people well, treat the world well? (Rowan Callick is Industry Fellow, Griffith University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How vulnerable is Xi Jinping over coronavirus?

China reported its fewest new coronavirus infections since January on Tuesday and its lowest daily death toll for a week, but the World Health Organization said data suggesting the epidemic had slowed should still be viewed with caution.

The head of a leading hospital in China's central city of Wuhan, epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, died of the disease on Tuesday, becoming one of the most prominent victims since the disease first appeared at the end of last year.

Illustrating the economic impact of the outbreak, European shares dropped on Tuesday after Apple Inc issued a revenue warning due to the disruption the disease is causing to global supply chains.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-fresh-events-spark-a-fresh-round-of-bioweapon-theories-281412"> Coronavirus outbreak - Fresh events spark another round of bioweapon theory</a>

Chinese officials reported 1,886 new cases - the first time the daily figure has fallen below 2,000 since Jan. 30 - bringing the mainland China total to 72,436. A figure of 98 new deaths marked the first time the daily toll in China had fallen below 100 since Feb. 11, bringing the total to 1,868.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-toll-leaps-past-1868-with-93-new-deaths-in-chinas-hubei-province-281239">World Health Organization</a> Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Chinese data "appears to show a decline in new cases" but any apparent trend "must be interpreted very cautiously".

Outside China, there have been 827 cases of the disease, known as COVID-19, and five deaths, according to a Reuters count based on official statements. More than half of those cases have been on a cruise ship quarantined off Japan.

Tedros said there had been 92 cases of human-to-human spread of the coronavirus in 12 countries outside China but the WHO did not have the data to make meaningful comparisons to what was going on in China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-confirms-first-coronavirus-death-on-island-cases-at-20-280968">Taiwan's confirms first coronavirus death on island, cases at 20</a>

"We have not seen sustained local transmission of coronavirus except in specific circumstances like the Diamond Princess cruise ship," he said.

China says figures indicating a slowdown in new cases in recent days show that aggressive steps it has taken to curb travel and commerce are slowing the spread of the disease beyond central Hubei province and its capital, Wuhan.

The WHO's Mike Ryan said China had had success with "putting out the fire" first in Hubei and ensuring that people returning to Beijing from the Lunar New Year holiday are monitored.

The numbers appear encouraging, said Mark Woolhouse, a professor of infectious disease epidemiology at Britain's University of Edinburgh, who described himself as cautious.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">Now, Taiwan sells face masks to fend off Chinese buyer</a>

"Though it is unrealistic to reduce the transmission rate to zero it may have been reduced to a level where the epidemic is brought under control," Woolhouse said.

"It may be that the epidemic is simply running its natural course, and is starting to run out of new people to infect. It could also be that the unprecedented public health measures introduced in China are having the desired effect."

Chinese state television said Liu Zhiming, the director of Wuhan Wuchang Hospital, died on Tuesday, the seventh health worker to fall victim. The hospital was designated solely for treating virus-infected patients.

Global repercussions

Despite global concerns about the economic impact of the disease, China's ambassador to the European Union said on Tuesday this would be "limited, short-term and manageable" and that Beijing had enough resources to step in if needed.

Chinese state television quoted President Xi Jinping as saying China could still meet its economic growth target for 2020 despite the epidemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">Now, Taiwan sells face masks to fend off Chinese buyers</a>

Economists are warning of potential mass layoffs in China later this year if the virus is not contained soon.

"The employment situation is OK in the first quarter, but if the virus is not contained by end-March, then from the second quarter, we'll see a big round of layoffs," said Dan Wang, an analyst with the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). Job losses could run as high as 4.5 million, he forecast.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in said the economy there was in an emergency situation and required stimulus as the epidemic had disrupted demand for South Korean goods.

Singapore announced a $4.5 billion financial package to help contain the outbreak in the city-state and weather its economic impact.

Singapore Airlines Ltd said it would temporarily cut flights in the three months to May, as the epidemic hits demand for services touching and transiting the key travel hub.

Japan, where the economy was already shrinking and the epidemic has created fears of recession, the spread of the virus has prompted Tokyo to put limits on public crowds while some companies are telling employees to work from home.

China reported its fewest new coronavirus infections since January on Tuesday and its lowest daily death toll for a week, but the World Health Organization said data suggesting the epidemic had slowed should still be viewed with caution.

China reported its fewest new coronavirus infections since January on Tuesday and its lowest daily death toll for a week, but the World Health Organization said data suggesting the epidemic had slowed should still be viewed with caution. The head of a leading hospital in China's central city of Wuhan, epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, died of the disease on Tuesday, becoming one of the most prominent victims since the disease first appeared at the end of last year. Illustrating the economic impact of the outbreak, European shares dropped on Tuesday after Apple Inc issued a revenue warning due to the disruption the disease is causing to global supply chains. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak - Fresh events spark another round of bioweapon theory Chinese officials reported 1,886 new cases - the first time the daily figure has fallen below 2,000 since Jan. 30 - bringing the mainland China total to 72,436. A figure of 98 new deaths marked the first time the daily toll in China had fallen below 100 since Feb. 11, bringing the total to 1,868. World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Chinese data "appears to show a decline in new cases" but any apparent trend "must be interpreted very cautiously". Outside China, there have been 827 cases of the disease, known as COVID-19, and five deaths, according to a Reuters count based on official statements. More than half of those cases have been on a cruise ship quarantined off Japan. Tedros said there had been 92 cases of human-to-human spread of the coronavirus in 12 countries outside China but the WHO did not have the data to make meaningful comparisons to what was going on in China. Also read: Taiwan's confirms first coronavirus death on island, cases at 20 "We have not seen sustained local transmission of coronavirus except in specific circumstances like the Diamond Princess cruise ship," he said. China says figures indicating a slowdown in new cases in recent days show that aggressive steps it has taken to curb travel and commerce are slowing the spread of the disease beyond central Hubei province and its capital, Wuhan. The WHO's Mike Ryan said China had had success with "putting out the fire" first in Hubei and ensuring that people returning to Beijing from the Lunar New Year holiday are monitored. The numbers appear encouraging, said Mark Woolhouse, a professor of infectious disease epidemiology at Britain's University of Edinburgh, who described himself as cautious. Also read: Now, Taiwan sells face masks to fend off Chinese buyer "Though it is unrealistic to reduce the transmission rate to zero it may have been reduced to a level where the epidemic is brought under control," Woolhouse said. "It may be that the epidemic is simply running its natural course, and is starting to run out of new people to infect. It could also be that the unprecedented public health measures introduced in China are having the desired effect." Chinese state television said Liu Zhiming, the director of Wuhan Wuchang Hospital, died on Tuesday, the seventh health worker to fall victim. The hospital was designated solely for treating virus-infected patients. Global repercussions Despite global concerns about the economic impact of the disease, China's ambassador to the European Union said on Tuesday this would be "limited, short-term and manageable" and that Beijing had enough resources to step in if needed. Chinese state television quoted President Xi Jinping as saying China could still meet its economic growth target for 2020 despite the epidemic. Also read: Now, Taiwan sells face masks to fend off Chinese buyers Economists are warning of potential mass layoffs in China later this year if the virus is not contained soon. "The employment situation is OK in the first quarter, but if the virus is not contained by end-March, then from the second quarter, we'll see a big round of layoffs," said Dan Wang, an analyst with the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). Job losses could run as high as 4.5 million, he forecast. South Korean President Moon Jae-in said the economy there was in an emergency situation and required stimulus as the epidemic had disrupted demand for South Korean goods. Singapore announced a $4.5 billion financial package to help contain the outbreak in the city-state and weather its economic impact. Singapore Airlines Ltd said it would temporarily cut flights in the three months to May, as the epidemic hits demand for services touching and transiting the key travel hub. Japan, where the economy was already shrinking and the epidemic has created fears of recession, the spread of the virus has prompted Tokyo to put limits on public crowds while some companies are telling employees to work from home.

China sees fall in coronavirus deaths, WHO urges caution, Apple takes hit

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

China will help companies resume production as soon as possible, the vice governor of the central bank said on Saturday.

The world's second-biggest economy has been hit by a fast-spreading <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-143-new-deaths-reported-in-china-as-toll-rises-to-1523-280766">coronavirus </a>epidemic that has killed more than 1,500 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-143-new-deaths-reported-in-china-as-toll-rises-to-1523-280766">COVID-19: 143 new deaths reported in China as toll rises to 1,523</a>

Liang Tao, vice chairman of the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, told a news conference <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-143-new-deaths-reported-in-china-as-toll-rises-to-1523-280766">China </a>would accelerate lending and credit support for key investment projects, while supporting small and private firms hit by the virus outbreak.

Separately, Xuan Changneng, vice head of the country's foreign exchange regulator, told the briefing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-143-new-deaths-reported-in-china-as-toll-rises-to-1523-280766">China </a>was expected to maintain a small current account surplus and keep a basic balance in international payments.

China will help companies resume production as soon as possible, the vice governor of the central bank said on Saturday. The world's second-biggest economy has been hit by a fast-spreading coronavirus epidemic that has killed more than 1,500 people.

China will help companies resume production as soon as possible, the vice governor of the central bank said on Saturday. The world's second-biggest economy has been hit by a fast-spreading coronavirus epidemic that has killed more than 1,500 people. COVID-19: 143 new deaths reported in China as toll rises to 1,523 Liang Tao, vice chairman of the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, told a news conference China would accelerate lending and credit support for key investment projects, while supporting small and private firms hit by the virus outbreak. Separately, Xuan Changneng, vice head of the country's foreign exchange regulator, told the briefing China was expected to maintain a small current account surplus and keep a basic balance in international payments.

China says to support firms to resume production as soon as possible

France reported the first fatality from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-confirms-first-coronavirus-death-outside-asia-280816">new coronavirus outside Asia </a>on Saturday fuelling global concerns about the epidemic, as the death toll from the outbreak jumped past 1,500 in China.

More than 66,000 people have now been infected in China from a virus that emerged in central Hubei province in December before spreading across the country and some two dozen countries.

Amid criticism over the handling of the crisis, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for tighter policing to protect social stability, while Beijing ordered people returning to the capital to self-quarantine for 14 days in the latest drastic measure aimed at containing the virus.

In France, an 80-year-old Chinese tourist died from the new coronavirus, French Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-qantas-virgin-atlantic-among-many-who-banned-flights-to-china-among-coronavirus-outbreak-280547">Also Read:&nbsp;United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic extend flight ban to China</a>

Only three other deaths have been recorded outside mainland China -- in the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Japan.

The death toll in China, meanwhile, rose to 1,523 after 143 more people died in the country, most in Hubei.

Several countries have banned arrivals from China and major airlines have cut services with the country.

The biggest cluster outside China is on a quarantined cruise ship off Japan, with 285 infections now as dozens of more cases were confirmed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-of-couples-are-married-in-mass-wedding-ceremony-braving-the-fears-of-ncov-279212">In Pics: Couples get married in South Korea braving coronavirus fears</a>

A US State Department spokesperson said Americans stranded on the vessel would be evacuated and would face a further quarantine of two weeks in the United States.

More police

The virus spread last month as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-143-new-deaths-reported-in-china-as-toll-rises-to-1523-280766">millions travelled across the country for the Lunar New Year</a>, which was extended by three days -- more than a week in some cities -- in an effort to prevent further contagion.

People have slowly started to return to work in the past two weeks, though many are doing their jobs from home and schools remain closed.

Beijing's municipal government enacted a rule on Friday requiring all people coming to the capital to quarantine themselves for 14 days, warning that violators would be punished, according to official media. It was unclear how authorities would enforce the measure.

Chinese authorities have placed some 56 million people in Hubei and its capital Wuhan under quarantine, virtually sealing off the province from the rest of the country in an unprecedented effort to contain the virus.

A number of cities far from the epicentre have also imposed tough measures limiting the number of people who can leave their homes.

The government must "increase use of police force and strengthen the visible use of police," to ensure stability during the crisis, Xi said in a February 3 speech published by state media on Saturday.

In another drastic preventive measure, China's central bank said Saturday that used banknotes were being disinfected with an ultraviolet light or high temperatures, and stored for up to 14 days before they are put back into circulation.

The scale of the epidemic ballooned this week after authorities in Hubei changed their criteria for counting cases, retroactively adding thousands of new patients to their tally.

New cases fall

Hubei added more than 14,000 cases in a single day this week after officials there started counting people clinically diagnosed through lung imaging, in addition to those with a positive lab test result.

On Saturday, the National Health Commission reported 2,641 new cases of the COVID-19 strain, with the vast majority in Hubei.

The number, however, was almost half those reported the previous day.

"We're seeking further clarity on how clinical diagnosis is being made to ensure other respiratory illnesses including influenza are not getting mixed into the COVID-19 data," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

The number of new confirmed cases has been steadily falling outside Hubei, with 221 infections reported on Saturday.

A top Chinese scientist had predicted that the epidemic could peak by the end of this month after the number of new cases had fallen earlier in the week.

The WHO has cautioned that it was "way too early" to make any predictions about the disease's trajectory.

An international team of WHO experts will arrive in Beijing this weekend for a joint mission with Chinese counterparts.

The joint team will inspect three provinces and cities to review the prevention and control measures, visit research centres, and make recommendations for containing the epidemic, according to National Health Commission spokesman Mi Feng.

France reported the first fatality from the new coronavirus outside Asia on Saturday fuelling global concerns about the epidemic, as the death toll from the outbreak jumped past 1,500 in China.

France reported the first fatality from the new coronavirus outside Asia on Saturday fuelling global concerns about the epidemic, as the death toll from the outbreak jumped past 1,500 in China. More than 66,000 people have now been infected in China from a virus that emerged in central Hubei province in December before spreading across the country and some two dozen countries. Amid criticism over the handling of the crisis, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for tighter policing to protect social stability, while Beijing ordered people returning to the capital to self-quarantine for 14 days in the latest drastic measure aimed at containing the virus. In France, an 80-year-old Chinese tourist died from the new coronavirus, French Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said. Also Read: United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic extend flight ban to China Only three other deaths have been recorded outside mainland China -- in the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Japan. The death toll in China, meanwhile, rose to 1,523 after 143 more people died in the country, most in Hubei. Several countries have banned arrivals from China and major airlines have cut services with the country. The biggest cluster outside China is on a quarantined cruise ship off Japan, with 285 infections now as dozens of more cases were confirmed. In Pics: Couples get married in South Korea braving coronavirus fears A US State Department spokesperson said Americans stranded on the vessel would be evacuated and would face a further quarantine of two weeks in the United States. More police The virus spread last month as millions travelled across the country for the Lunar New Year, which was extended by three days -- more than a week in some cities -- in an effort to prevent further contagion. People have slowly started to return to work in the past two weeks, though many are doing their jobs from home and schools remain closed. Beijing's municipal government enacted a rule on Friday requiring all people coming to the capital to quarantine themselves for 14 days, warning that violators would be punished, according to official media. It was unclear how authorities would enforce the measure. Chinese authorities have placed some 56 million people in Hubei and its capital Wuhan under quarantine, virtually sealing off the province from the rest of the country in an unprecedented effort to contain the virus. A number of cities far from the epicentre have also imposed tough measures limiting the number of people who can leave their homes. The government must "increase use of police force and strengthen the visible use of police," to ensure stability during the crisis, Xi said in a February 3 speech published by state media on Saturday. In another drastic preventive measure, China's central bank said Saturday that used banknotes were being disinfected with an ultraviolet light or high temperatures, and stored for up to 14 days before they are put back into circulation. The scale of the epidemic ballooned this week after authorities in Hubei changed their criteria for counting cases, retroactively adding thousands of new patients to their tally. New cases fall Hubei added more than 14,000 cases in a single day this week after officials there started counting people clinically diagnosed through lung imaging, in addition to those with a positive lab test result. On Saturday, the National Health Commission reported 2,641 new cases of the COVID-19 strain, with the vast majority in Hubei. The number, however, was almost half those reported the previous day. "We're seeking further clarity on how clinical diagnosis is being made to ensure other respiratory illnesses including influenza are not getting mixed into the COVID-19 data," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The number of new confirmed cases has been steadily falling outside Hubei, with 221 infections reported on Saturday. A top Chinese scientist had predicted that the epidemic could peak by the end of this month after the number of new cases had fallen earlier in the week. The WHO has cautioned that it was "way too early" to make any predictions about the disease's trajectory. An international team of WHO experts will arrive in Beijing this weekend for a joint mission with Chinese counterparts. The joint team will inspect three provinces and cities to review the prevention and control measures, visit research centres, and make recommendations for containing the epidemic, according to National Health Commission spokesman Mi Feng.

First coronavirus death confirmed in Europe; over 1,500 die in China

China on Tuesday "commended" Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's remarks that the island nation has received "lot of benefits" from Beijing's ambitious multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The BRI is an initiative launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping when he came to power in 2013. It aims to link Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa and Europe with a network of land and sea route.

During his recent visit to India, Rajapaksa said his country has received a lot of benefits from the BRI.

China, in the last few years, received over eight billion US dollars funding for its infrastructure projects. Sri Lanka handed over its Hambantota port to China in 2017 as a debt swap.

When asked for reaction to Rajapaksa's remarks, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, "China commends the comments made by Prime Minister Rajapaksa".

"China and Sri Lanka share a strategic cooperative partnership based on sincere mutual assistance and ever-lasting friendship," he said.

"Based on Sri Lanka's development needs, China offered loans to support its infrastructure building and other major domestic projects concerning people's livelihood. These projects and loans have boosted Sri Lanka's economic growth, created a large amount of local jobs and contributed to the country's sustainable development," Geng said.

"Those outcomes have been commended by the government and people of Sri Lanka. China stands ready to strengthen BRI cooperation with Sri Lanka to deliver more benefits to the two people," he said.

China on Tuesday "commended" Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's remarks that the island nation has received "lot of benefits" from Beijing's ambitious multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

China on Tuesday "commended" Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's remarks that the island nation has received "lot of benefits" from Beijing's ambitious multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is an initiative launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping when he came to power in 2013. It aims to link Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa and Europe with a network of land and sea route. During his recent visit to India, Rajapaksa said his country has received a lot of benefits from the BRI. China, in the last few years, received over eight billion US dollars funding for its infrastructure projects. Sri Lanka handed over its Hambantota port to China in 2017 as a debt swap. When asked for reaction to Rajapaksa's remarks, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, "China commends the comments made by Prime Minister Rajapaksa". "China and Sri Lanka share a strategic cooperative partnership based on sincere mutual assistance and ever-lasting friendship," he said. "Based on Sri Lanka's development needs, China offered loans to support its infrastructure building and other major domestic projects concerning people's livelihood. These projects and loans have boosted Sri Lanka's economic growth, created a large amount of local jobs and contributed to the country's sustainable development," Geng said. "Those outcomes have been commended by the government and people of Sri Lanka. China stands ready to strengthen BRI cooperation with Sri Lanka to deliver more benefits to the two people," he said.

China 'commends' Rajapaksa's defence of BRI during his India visit

For eight days and the AFP team lived and worked at the centre of the global health emergency, witnessing how life in the Chinese city of Wuhan was turned upside down as it was cut off from the rest of the world. Watch report:

Fineprint: Ground report from inside of Coronavirus epicentre Wuhan

Pakistan has moved a resolution in its Parliament supporting China in its fight against the deadly coronavirus outbreak. Doing so Pakistan has become the first nation in the world to move such a resolution. China is witnessing an unprecedented coroutine following the coronavirus outbreak. The whole world is concerned about it. The upper house called the Senate of Pakistan parliament has unanimously adopted a resolution to stand with China in its hour of need.

Pak Senate steps in support of China, Passes resolution praising China's fight against Coronavirus

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