Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Friday called for more major scientific breakthroughs in the research and development of testing kits, effective medicines and a vaccine to help China win the battle against COVID-19.

Premier Li heard reports of the latest progress made in the development and application of a testing kit.

Hailing the important role of a testing kit in the prevention and control of the epidemic, Li called for more efforts to develop such equipment with less testing time, more precise results and easier operation.

He stressed the importance of enhancing test capability, so as to curb the spread of the disease and improve the recovery rate.

Experts said some effective Chinese and Western medicines have been developed and screened for diagnosis and treatment, and some are in clinical trials.

Li asked about the functions and safety of the drugs, saying it was crucial to select several main drugs that are safe and reliable and have significant clinical effects, so that medical staff can use them to treat critically ill patients and reduce the mortality rate.

Various measures have been taken to prevent and control the epidemic, but ultimately a vaccine is needed to beat the epidemic, said the premier.

He called on researchers to develop a safe and effective vaccine as soon as possible, respect scientific laws and strictly guarantee quality according to standards.

Li also urged relevant authorities to offer greater support for the research and development of a testing kit, medicines and vaccine.