Donald Trump took to Twitter to reveal that he had a “very good conversation” with the President of China Xi Jinping and that the US and China are now working “closely together” in the fight against coronavirus.
He tweeted: “Just finished a very good conversation with President Xi of China. Discussed in great detail the CoronaVirus that is ravaging large parts of our Planet. China has been through much & has developed a strong understanding of the Virus. We are working closely together. Much respect!”
This came after he was adamant about referring to Coronavirus as the “Chinese virus” despite being told that it’s racist.
Twitter users reacted to his tweet, where he referred to COVID-19 as coronavirus and no longer as “Chinese Virus”.
“It conveniently turned from the Chinese virus back to the coronavirus when you want to pretend you have respect for the president of China. You’re such a hypocrite,” @TalbertSwan wrote.
The phone conversation between both Presidents followed a video conference meeting of G-20 leaders during which Xi Jinping gave a speech calling for greater international cooperation.
In the call with Trump, Xi said that U.S.-China relations are at a critical juncture, and hoped the U.S. would make substantial action in improving the relationship, according to a Chinese-language state media report translated by CNBC.
“Under the current circumstances, China and the U.S. should unite to fight the epidemic,” the report of Xi’s comments said, noting both countries’ health departments and disease control experts have maintained communication.
“The Chinese side is willing to continue to provide information and experience with the U.S. without reservation,” the report added, noting some provinces, cities and businesses in China are providing the U.S. with medical supplies.
“The Chinese side understands the current difficulties of the U.S., and is willing to provide support within (China’s) ability.”
