Canadian Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne applauded China's strict and transparent preventative measures in tackling the novel coronavirus outbreak, saying that Canada has confidence in China's capability to win the battle.

Champagne made the comments during a phone call with Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi Friday.

The Canadian Foreign Minister expressed Canada's willingness to provide assistance to China, along with sympathy and condolences to those who are suffering from the disease.

Wang, for his part, said the Chinese government is taking resolute and forceful measures to conduct scientific and effective prevention and control of the epidemic.

China has always prioritized public health, said Wang, adding that China is fully confident and capable of winning the battle.

Noting that the World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the outbreak of novel coronavirus as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, he highlighted WHO's discouragement on any travel or trade restriction and expected Canada to hold an objective view on the situation so as to ensure no impact on bilateral exchanges and trade.

China's priority

Wang also pointed out that Chinese President Xi Jinping has made important decisions several times to put people's safety and health as the top priority.

The Chinese government has decided to dispatch charter flights to bring back travelers from Wuhan, Hubei Province, who remained abroad, he said, adding that this fully reflected the Chinese government's responsible attitude to solving people's problems.

Wang also said that China was willing to strengthen cooperation with the international community, including Canada, to jointly respond to the epidemic and safeguard global public health.