China's Permanent Representative to the UN Office at Geneva Chen Xu on Tuesday underscored a "people-centered" approach in the fight against COVID-19. 

Chen made the remarks on behalf of over 100 countries at the 46th session of the UN Human Rights Council.

Regarding the impact of the pandemic, Chen pointed out that the poor and vulnerable groups are the hardest hit and a global response is needed to address the global COVID-19 pandemic.

He continued to explain the global response with three proposals.

Efforts should be made to protect the right to life and that of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, he said, adding that it is essential to deepen international cooperation on the prevention and control of the pandemic.

Chen also mentioned the importance of promoting sustainable development, stepping up efforts to alleviate poverty with the aim of eliminating all forms of poverty and improving people's living standards. 

Measures should be taken to strengthen the social security system, Chen said as the third proposal.

China's joint statement received wide support and response, as the serious impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the enjoyment of human rights, vaccine "nationalism," rising global inequality, racial discrimination and xenophobia received widespread attention during the session.