Foreigners protected amid outbreak, says Wang Yi to Japanese minister

China has a responsible attitude in protecting the safety of foreigners in the country as it is endeavoring to prevent and control the novel coronavirus-related pneumonia, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.

Wang made the remark in a telephone conversation with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi.

The Chinese government stays committed to protecting the lives and health of the Chinese people, and also treats foreigners in China, including the Japanese nationals, in the same way, and addresses their legitimate concerns in a timely manner, Wang said.

Wang briefed Motegi about China's efforts in contagion prevention and control, saying related work is in progress in an open, transparent, scientific and orderly manner.

Saying the fight against the disease is the common concern of the international community, he stated China stands ready to work with countries from around the world, including Japan, to actively deal with the contagion.

The country has strong confidence that the battle of prevention and control of the contagious disease will be won at an early date under the leadership of the Communist Party of China and the Chinese government as well as through the united efforts of all the Chinese people, he said.

China will continue to step up communication and coordination with the international community, and join hands to curb the spread of the contagion, Wang said.

Motegi appreciated the active and strong measures China has taken to contain the contagious disease. Saying a friend in need is a friend indeed, he stated that Japan is willing to work with China to cope with the threat of the disease and provide all-around support and assistance.

The Japanese foreign minister said he has faith that China will win the battle against the contagion at an early date.