China-U.S. relationship at critical juncture, NPC spokesperson says
CGTN
07:31

The China-U.S. relationship is now at a critical juncture and it is essential both sides insist on avoiding conflict or confrontation and engaging in mutual respect and win-win cooperation, Zhang Yesui, former Chinese ambassador to the United States and spokesperson for the third session of the 13th National People's Congress, told a press conference on Thursday.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, China has made painstaking efforts and enormous sacrifices to curb the spread of the virus and save lives, Zhang said. 

China has shared information about the virus with the World Health Organization and other countries in an open and transparent manner, he continued, adding that China has cooperated with the rest of the world to fight the epidemic and won international recognition and praise for its efforts. 

Zhang said these are facts that cannot be discredited. 

The spokesperson said the origin of the virus is a scientific issue which should be studied by scientists based on facts and evidence. 

It's immoral and irresponsible to try to shift responsibility to hide one's own problems, Zhang added.  

"The virus is our common enemy. To win the fight against COVID-19 epidemic, we need science, reason and unity," he said, before calling for more responsibility and cooperation and less political manipulation.