Unity, coordination stressed in China's anti-pandemic victory

The "decisive victory" against the COVID-19 epidemic in China has been achieved due to the power of China's political system as the Communist Party of China and Chinese government has always prioritized people and saving their lives, which is the fundamental principal in its epidemic response, a senior health expert said on Thursday.

The Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee said at a recent meeting China has achieved a major and decisive victory in its COVID-19 prevention and control since November 2022.

Liang Wannian, head of the National Health Commission's expert panel on COVID-19 control, said the victory was achieved because China's political system can ensure different department and regions can work together, with governments, enterprises and individuals each assuming their responsibilities and realizing synergy, he said.

The mobilization and participation of the public is also key, and the Chinese people has shown a high degree of altruism, unity and dedication in the fight against the epidemic, he added.

In addition, disease control, public health and medical workers have made notable contributions to winning the fight and the country has given full play to the role of technology in its epidemic control efforts, from the research and development of vaccines, drugs and testing equipment to the use of big data and artificial intelligence in the tracing and management of close contact, Liang said.

He added unity, grassroots officials, traditional Chinese medicine and good communication all played a major role in securing the victory.