On 3 February, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi answered a phone call from Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

On behalf of the government and people of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud conveyed support for China's efforts against the novel coronavirus outbreak, fully recognized the strong epidemic control measures China has taken, highly commended China's responsible attitude in containing and mitigating the outbreak, and expressed full confidence in China's ability to ultimately prevail over the outbreak.

State Councilor Wang thanked Saudi Arabia for its support to China at a crucial moment in the fight against the outbreak, and said that China has put in place a nationwide mechanism to battle the outbreak with concerted efforts. When visiting China, the WHO Director-General spoke highly of the strong measures China has taken, and expressed full confidence in China's ability to overcome this challenge. The WHO also unequivocally recommended that there is no reason for measures that unnecessarily interfere with international travel and trade. China has the capability and confidence to protect the life and health of the Chinese people, and will continue to take effective measures to ensure the working and living conditions of Saudi citizens and citizens from other countries in China and contribute its part to global public health.

Wang said that China and Saudi Arabia have a tradition of mutual support and mutual help. The China-Saudi Arabia comprehensive strategic partnership has kept growing and practical cooperation in various areas has been productive. We believe that Saudi Arabia will stand with us throughout this fight against the outbreak. The epidemic would only be temporary, and the cooperation and friendship between the two countries will be long-lasting.