Xi Jinping Emphasizes 'Full Mobilization of Capabilities' for COVID-19 in Hong Kong

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] Amid a recent surge in COVID-19 cases in Hong Kong, Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized that additional infection control must be the top priority.

On the 16th, pro-China Hong Kong media outlets such as Ta Kung Pao and Wen Wei Po reported on their front pages that the President stressed "all possible efforts and resources must be mobilized to protect the health of residents and maintain social stability."

This statement came just days after Hong Kong officials met with mainland Chinese authorities over the past weekend to discuss plans to achieve zero COVID-19 cases in the region.

Lau Siu-kai, Vice Chairman of the semi-official China Hong Kong and Macau Studies Association based in Beijing, said, "President Xi may be providing political support to the Hong Kong government," adding, "This reflects a kind of approval and backing for the government to implement stricter measures."

Pro-China politicians, with assistance from mainland experts, have proposed ideas to strengthen mandatory city-wide COVID testing and expand temporary medical facilities, according to related media reports. On the 13th, Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam appointed ministers to lead five joint task forces (TF) between Hong Kong and mainland authorities.

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