China accuses US of scaremongering over coronavirus

Anthony WALLACE / AFP

The Chinese government has accused the US of spreading fear over coronavirus outbreak, instead of offering significant aid.

In a news briefing on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said the US has "unceasingly manufactured and spread panic".

She also blamed Washington for lack of help, claiming the US "has yet to provide any substantial assistance to China".

The US was the first nation to begin evacuations, to impose a travel ban on China and barred travellers who had recently visited the country. 

It comes as the World Health Organisation (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said there was no need to halt travel to China to halt the spread of coronavirus.

So far, the flu-like virus has killed 361 people in China.

More from International News

News

  • UAE President receives Lebanese counterpart

    President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, in his first official visit to the country since taking office.

  • UAE authorities conduct air ambulance mission in Oman

    Emirati authorities carried out an air ambulance mission for an injured person who "suffered a sudden health problem" in Oman, it was announced on Wednesday. 

  • UAE President holds talks with Ecuadorian leader

    UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the President of the Republic of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, met on Wednesday to discuss strengthening cooperation in economy, trade, renewable energy, sustainability, investment, tourism, and agriculture.