Islamabad (People’s Daily) – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday expressed confidence over China’s ongoing efforts to combat the COVID-19, saying China’s “gigantic effort” will allow for “the progressive reduction of the disease.”

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The remarks were made by Guterres during a joint press conference with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday in Islamabad.

Calling the COVID-19 outbreak “a huge challenge,” the UN chief said the response of the Chinese government has been a very strong and impressive one. “Obviously, in a situation as complex as this, it is always difficult to have a quick solution,” he added.

“The effort that is in place is a gigantic effort. We are very confident that the efforts will allow for the progressive reduction of the disease,” Guterres said.

The UN chief began his four-day visit to Pakistan on Sunday. During this visit, he will address the international conference on Afghan refugees themed “40 Years of Hosting Afghan Refugees in Pakistan: A New Partnership for Solidarity” on Monday.