China accuses Mike Pompeo of spreading 'political virus' amid COVID-19 scare

Chinese state media accused United States politicians of spreing ‘political virus’ running a smear campaign against Beijing amid coronavirus crisis. Xinhua official news ncy escalated war of words in its editorial targeting Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security viser Robert O’Brien, who h accused China of reacting slowly to coronavirus situation.

Last week, O’Brien raised apprehensions about China’s transparency over coronavirus cases and swiftness in handling crisis. Xinhua reiterated Foreign Ministry’s statement that China bought “precious time” of or countries to prepare against threat of pandemic.

Chinese news ncy targeted US politicians for calling vel coronavirus, COVID-19, as “Wuhan virus” or “China virus”. World Health Organisation (WHO) chief has recently cautioned everyone to over use of termilogy related to vel coronavirus. WHO Director-General Tedros ham Ghebreyesus said that reason to name it as COVID-19 was t to stigmatise any race or country.

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On March 12, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang h said that countries like Singapore and South Korea took necessary measures and put epidemics under control because y me full use of this precious time China bought for world. Geng said that a World Health Organisation (WHO) mission, including US experts, visited China and highly recommended country’s transparency. 

“As for wher US availed itself of this window to enhance preparedness, we do t comment, but I believe fact is witnessed by all in America and across globe,” said Shuang at regular press conference.

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'Turn inward'

Chinese spokesperson h urged all countries to join hands to overcome difficulties toger and said that pointing fingers at ors is t constructive. “Turn inward and examine yourself when you encounter difficulties in life,” Geng quoted a Chinese saying. He also urged Robert O Brien, US National Security viser who raised apprehension about transparency, to respect facts and common understanding of international community.

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