Beijing criticizes the US for travel advisory

Beijing on Friday criticized Washington's decision to raise travel advisory on China to the highest grade of warning despite the World Health Organization's opposition of travel restrictions against China.

The foreign ministry said that the US travel alert levels were not a "gesture of goodwill," as they came despite the World Health Organization opposing travel restrictions to China being put in place.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on Friday in an online statement: "Just as the WHO recommended against travel restrictions, the United States rushed to go in the opposite way. Certainly it's not a gesture of goodwill."

Hua also criticized remarks allegedly made by some US officials about China.

US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross was reported to have said the virus could help bring jobs back to the US while others, in a veiled attack, accused China of being reluctant to cooperate with the US.

The spokesperson added that Chinese people are going all out to fight against the pneumonia outbreak caused by the novel coronavirus and many countries have offered support.

"In sharp contrast, certain US officials' words and actions are neither factual nor appropriate," Hua said.

She added that the Chinese nation is known for its perseverance and resilience. China has confidence that with the resolute leadership of the Communist Party of China, it will definitely win the battle against the outbreak and overcome any difficulty lying ahead to realize the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.