Xi Jinping's UN Speech Opposes Politicization of COVID-19 (Comprehensive)

Active Participation in Global Research on Virus Tracing and Transmission Routes
China States "No Intention to Engage in Cold War with Any Country"

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Chinese President Xi Jinping (習近平) argued that the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis should not be politicized.

On the 22nd (local time), President Xi said in a video speech at the United Nations General Assembly held at the UN Headquarters in New York, "Countries must strengthen solidarity to respond to the COVID-19 crisis."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The politicization of COVID-19 is a rebuttal to President Donald Trump's remarks blaming China for the virus. In a video speech delivered before President Xi, Trump raised the responsibility of China and the World Health Organization (WHO).

In contrast, President Xi insisted that the WHO should play a leading role in responding to COVID-19.

President Xi emphasized, "The WHO must demonstrate core leadership, advance international joint prevention and control, and resolutely win the war against the epidemic," adding, "We oppose the politicization and stigmatization of the epidemic."

He also stated, "China is sharing its epidemic experience and diagnosis and treatment technologies with other countries," and "We will actively participate in global scientific research on virus tracing and transmission routes."

President Xi particularly hinted at providing the vaccines under development as a global public good.

He said, "Many vaccines in China have entered Phase 3 clinical trials," and "Once development is completed, priority will be given to developing countries."

President Xi also advocated for international cooperation through multilateralism instead of unilateralism.

He stressed, "The epidemic is not only a test of national governance capacity but also a test of the global governance system," adding, "We must adhere to the international system centered on the United Nations, that is, the path of multilateralism."

President Xi said, "There may be competition among countries, but it should be positive and international norms must be maintained," and "Big countries should act with a broad vision and demonstrate responsibility by providing more global public goods." This is interpreted as a remark aimed at the United States.

President Xi stated, "China is the largest developing country in the world and follows the path of peaceful development, open development, cooperative development, and common prosperity."

He reiterated, "China will not pursue hegemony, expansion, or influence, nor does it intend to engage in a Cold War with any country."

President Xi added that differences should be narrowed through dialogue and disputes resolved through negotiation.

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