Pierpaolo Sileri, Italy's deputy health minister, appreciated China's experience fighting against COVID-19, saying the information China has shared with the world will help Italy contain the epidemic.

As the first country to battle the novel coronavirus, China's abundant experiences in treating patients – particularly critical cases – will be very helpful for Italy and the world as a whole, Sileri told CGTN in an exclusive interview on Tuesday.

China has maintained a relatively low mortality rate, Sileri noted, adding that the scientific treatment plans are vital for Italy.

He also appreciated the transparency of information sharing regarding COVID-19, saying the quick access to disease information set a model for the international community to learn from.

The virus is a common challenge for mankind, Sileri said, calling for joint efforts to tackle it.

(Cover: Police officers and soldiers check passengers leaving from Milan's main train station, Italy, March 9, 2020. /AP)