ICRC seeks enhanced ties with China to boost fight against COVID-19

The International Committee of the Red Cross looks to deepen cooperation with China in the fight against global COVID-19 pandemic, especially in supporting the most vulnerable groups, the personal envoy of the organization's president for China said.

"This is a global fight that requires a global response and solidarity across borders," Jacques Pellet, also head of the ICRC Regional Delegation for East Asia, said. "We are calling on states, the public, private organizations, and humanitarians to stand together. This virus does not discriminate. None of us are safe until we're all safe."

Although the virus is the common enemy for all, it affects the most vulnerable people most, including those in armed conflict areas and poverty-stricken areas, Pellet said, adding ICRC has stepped up response in these places by supporting medical facilities and places of detention, providing access to clean water to curb the spread among communities and ensure medical access for displaced people and detainees.

"I'm confident that China will maintain and enhance its support to this collective effort," he said.

ICRC and the Red Cross Society of China has agreed to enhance concrete cooperation in fight against COVID-19 pandemic, and their respective teams have been in contact in the field recently in countries including Iran and Iraq, he said. It is also in regular contact with Chinese government for constructive dialogues, he said.

"China, including the government and private sector, has provided many support to other countries affected by COVID-19, both financial and through material, expertise and human resources," he said.