In light of some recent comments on the issues of data access and the “Lab leak” theory in relation to the COVID-19 origins-tracing, I would like to state as follows:

As to the so-called access to data and the “Lab leak ” theory, it is China's consistent position that, the main obstacle for global origins-tracing study lies in political manipulation by certain forces, who intended to overturn the joint report released by the WHO-China joint study team in an attempt to smear China and make groundless accusations. The international community is well aware of the ill intention. More than 80 countries have written to the WHO Director-General, issued statements, or sent diplomatic notes to voice their objection to politicization and call for upholding the joint report by the WHO-China joint study team.

Origins-tracing of COVID-19 is a matter of science, which should and can only be conducted by scientists. The WHO is a Member States-driven specialized agency in the area of global public health. Its secretariat should adhere to an objective, impartial, scientific and responsible stance, and fulfill its duties within the mandate defined by member states, with a view to create enabling conditions for global origins study free from political disruption.