Things are picking up as China is combating the outbreak of the novel coronavirus pneumonia, officially known as COVID-19, said Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Lin Songtian here on Friday.
There has been a continuous decline in the number of newly confirmed and suspected cases both nationwide and in central China's Hubei province -- the epicenter of the outbreak, Lin told a press briefing.
The outbreak has been abating slowly with a growing number of cured and discharged patients, which shows that it is curable and controllable, according to Lin.
"Since the outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia, the Chinese government has made the prevention and control of the epidemic its top priority," said the ambassador, adding that a national prevention and control system has been put in place and working very effectively.
The efficiency of the government's treatment programs has also been improved, he added.
China has received assistance from countries, including South Africa, and international organizations, including the World Health Organization and the United Nations, Lin said, adding that the organizations have expressed their confidence in China's efforts against the epidemic.
People's concerns and anxiety are normal and understandable reaction to the epidemic, but there is no need to panic, Lin said.
The ambassador reiterated the Chinese government's position on evacuation of foreign nationals from China, saying "it is the safest, cheapest and wisest choice for foreign nationals to stay in China now and follow prevention and control measures."
He expressed his confidence in South Africa's ability to deal with the situation and thanked the country for supporting China. "I would like to thank the South African government, business community, think-tanks, media and people from all walks of life for their understanding and firm support for China."
"They are giving us solidarity, strength and confidence. It is our strong belief that if we fight as one we will surely win this battle," he said.
