The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian commented that Guangdong authorities are “working promptly to improve their working method” in response to South Africa’s concerns about rumours of discrimination and stigmatisation of Africans in China.
Also read: SA concerned about rumours of discrimination and stigmatisation of Africans in China
SA, the chair of the African Union, raised its concern in a press statement released yesterday by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco).
“Reports include allegations of forceful testing, quarantining for Covid-19 and other inhumane treatment,” said Dirco spokesperson Lunga Ngqengelele.
Lijian told the Bedfordview and Edenvale NEWS that China is still facing the risk of imported cases and domestic resurgence.
“As the pandemic spreads all over the world imported cases are causing mounting pressure,” said Lijian.
“The Chinese government has been attaching great importance to the life and health of foreign nationals in China.
Also read: Covid-19 – Sisulu calls for municipalities to suspend cutting off water to residents
“All foreigners are treated equally.
“We reject differential treatment, and we have zero tolerance for discrimination.
“Since the outbreak, the authorities in Guangdong attach high importance to the treatment of foreign patients.
“Specific plans and proper arrangements are made to protect their life and health to the best of our ability, thanks to which we were able to save the lives of some African patients in severe or critical conditions.
“The Guangdong authorities attach great importance to some African countries’ concerns and are working promptly to improve their working method.”
Lijian said the measures include the provision of health management services without differentiation and designating hotels for the accommodation of foreigners required to undergo medical observation.
Lijian added it also includes setting up an effective communication mechanism with foreign consulates-general in Guangzhou. Measures also include rejecting all racist and discriminatory remarks.
“The foreign ministry will stay in close communication with the Guangdong authorities and continue responding to the African side’s reasonable concerns and legitimate appeals,” said Lijian.
As Chair of the @_AfricanUnion, South Africa is deeply concerned about reports of alleged ill-treatment of African nationals in China, including the forceful testing, quarantining for #COVID19, and other inhuman treatment. #CoronavirusPandemic
— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) April 12, 2020
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