Beijing: Amid the surge of Covid-19 cases, Chinese President Xi Jinping said his country's policy to curb the outbreak is "rational and well thought out." He added that the government has adopted a covid response following a "science-based and targeted approach."
"Following a science-based and targeted approach, we have adapted our Covid response in light of the evolving situation to protect the life and health of the people to the greatest extent possible, '' reported Geo-Politik.
Xi drew attention to officials and the general public who "bravely stuck to their posts through it." He particularly mentioned medical professionals and community workers. "With extraordinary efforts, we have prevailed over unprecedented difficulties and challenges, and it has not been an easy journey for anyone." He also asked people to work through the crisis. "Everyone is holding on with great fortitude, and the light of hope is right in front of us. Let's make an extra effort to pull through, as perseverance and solidarity mean victory."
In his first public address of 2023, he did not mention the government's unpreparedness and the sudden cancellation of the zero-COVID policy. The President also did not mention the growing anger and people's suffering due to the new outbreak of covid-19. He also did not speak about how the response of the people forced the government to withdraw the policy. Following the surge in covid cases, the government implemented mass testing, lockdown, and travel restrictions. It was withdrawn after people held protests across the country.
He also skipped talking about covid-related deaths but confirmed that China has entered a new phase of covid response where tough challenges continue to exist.
His address focused on non-Covid-related topics including natural disasters and workplace accidents. stressing the importance of building "consensus through communication and consultation", he said a nation will prosper only when its young people thrive. "For China to develop further, our young people must step forward and take on their responsibilities."
Xi also spoke of Taiwan which China claims to be its territory and referred to it as such. "The people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are members of one and the same family. I sincerely hope that our compatriots on both sides of the Strait will work together with a unity of purpose to jointly foster lasting prosperity of the Chinese nation."