DR Mahathir Mohamad has conveyed Malaysia’s solidarity with and steadfast support for China in handling the ongoing Covid-19 epidemic.

In the more than 30-minute telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping yesterday, the prime minister also expressed confidence in every effort being undertaken by the president and his government on the matter.

“The two leaders spoke of mutual understanding and close cooperation to contain and overcome the Covid-19 epidemic, as well as to minimise its impact,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

Xi appreciated Malaysia’s friendship and assistance, and assured that China has the strength to fight the Covid-19 outbreak and would care for Malaysians and others currently in China like its own citizens, said Wisma Putra.

The two leaders agreed on the necessity for concerted effort, with the prime minister referring to the joint move to be undertaken by Asean and China to bring the situation under control.

“Both leaders also agreed to remain in close contact with each other in responding to this epidemic,” the statement said.

More than 64,000 confirmed cases and more than 1,400 deaths have been reported in China since the outbreak began.

There are 19 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Malaysia as of yesterday. – Bernama, February 14, 2020.