When asked about the situation of foreign-funded enterprises in China, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang said during the daily online briefing on 19 February that relevant departments are coordinating their efforts and taking targeted measures to help address practical problems encountered by foreign-funded enterprises in investment, production and business operation, and do their utmost to minimize the impact of the epidemic. Some foreign-funded enterprises in China have gradually resumed production or business operation where conditions are ripe.

Geng pointed out that in general, the impact of the epidemic on China's economy is temporary, and there is sufficient policy space and maneuvering room for the Chinese government to boost the economy, so the long-term positive trend of the Chinese economy remains unchanged. China has the confidence to accomplish the goals and tasks set for its economic and social development.

"At present, China's epidemic prevention and control measures are paying off, and we are actively supporting and facilitating the resumption of work and production by various enterprises and institutions, including foreign-funded companies in China. Relevant departments are making calibrated and coordinated efforts to help them deal with problems in investment, production and business operation to minimize the impact of the epidemic to the greatest extent possible. As far as I know, some foreign enterprises that are ready have already been resuming operation and production," Geng said.

Geng pointed out that many foreign enterprises in China, including US companies, have expressed their confidence in China's ability to overcome the difficulties soon and maintain sound and stable economic growth. The epidemic does not dent their determination and confidence in investing and doing business in China.

He underscored that a high degree of economic integration means that challenges to the Chinese economy are challenges to the global economy. In the face of the epidemic, helping China is helping the world. Geng said, "The urgent task for the international community is to make concerted efforts to fight the epidemic, resume normal state-to-state exchanges and cooperation as soon as possible, and provide strong support and facilitation for normal operation of international trade and stable growth of the world economy."

(The full text is available at: http://www.xinhuanet.com/politics/2020- 02/19/c_1125597451.htm)