President Moon and Prime Minister Chung Weekly Meeting "All-Out Effort to Block Further Spread of New Coronavirus"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] On the 3rd, President Moon Jae-in and Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun held a regular meeting for about 1 hour and 30 minutes at Sangchunjae in the Blue House, exchanging opinions on national issues including the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia) problem.

On the same day, the Prime Minister reported on the nationwide response measures to the novel coronavirus infection, countermeasures against high concentrations of fine dust expected to worsen around February to March, and follow-up measures for the Donghae pension accident that caused six deaths during the Lunar New Year holiday, according to a written briefing from the Prime Minister's Office.

First, Prime Minister Chung reported to President Moon on the current situation related to the novel coronavirus, including measures to block domestic inflow, prevent community spread, and minimize economic impact.

In response, President Moon said, "Because the novel virus shows different patterns from existing infectious diseases, such as high infectivity, possibility of asymptomatic transmission, and lack of treatment, it is necessary to comprehensively reevaluate the entire existing quarantine system to fit the current situation and make all-around improvements."

He continued, "Although quarantine is generally being carried out systematically, infections are occurring in the community and confirmed cases are increasing," and urged, "I ask the Cabinet, led by the Prime Minister, to unite their efforts and focus all their energy on blocking further spread."

During the discussion, it was decided to temporarily postpone the National Safety Inspection, scheduled to start on the 17th to check the risks and safety of various facilities, in order to concentrate the government's available resources on the novel coronavirus situation.

Prime Minister Chung also reported on this year's plan to promote the 'Living SOC (Social Overhead Capital) Project' during the meeting.

Prime Minister Chung stated, "With a total budget of 10.5 trillion won, a 30% increase compared to the previous year, we will expand the targets for complexification and focus on school complex projects in urban areas where site acquisition is easier, thereby accelerating the project so that the public can feel the effects of the policy."

The facilities targeted for complexification will also be expanded to include 10 types such as libraries, gymnasiums, and daycare centers, with the addition of elderly care facilities and local food stores.

President Moon urged, "Since Living SOC is a project with a very large ripple effect on the quality of life, balanced development, and job creation for the people and local economy, I ask the Prime Minister's Office to actively promote it so that the central government and local governments cooperate closely and the effects can be realized on the ground."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.