China, in a reversal Monday, said scientists with the World Health Organization investigating the origins of the novel coronavirus can enter the country this Thursday.
Beijing initially banned the experts from entering the country, sparking accusations of a cover-up.
"China stands ready to closely cooperate with WHO and international experts. With specific details of itinerary, I refer to you to competent authority,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said during a press briefing.
"The origin tracing may involve more countries. The WHO needs to conduct similar studies in other countries and regions," he added.
Zhao declined to provide details of the visit and whether the scientists would be permitted to visit the city of Wuhan where the outbreak first emerged.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus last week expressed disappointment over delays, saying that members of the international scientific team had already began their trip as part of the arrangement.
“Today, we learned that Chinese officials have not yet finalized the necessary permissions for the team's arrival in China,” Ghebreyesus said last week.
“I'm very disappointed with this news, given that two members had already begun their journeys and others were not able to travel at the last minute, but had been in contact with senior Chinese officials.”
Solange Reyner ✉
Solange Reyner is a writer and editor for Newsmax. She has more than 15 years in the journalism industry reporting and covering news, sports and politics.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.