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ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 29-- China is committed to strengthening cooperation against the novel coronavirus and other health challenges facing the globe, including those in Africa, a Chinese diplomat has said, while also praising international and regional solidarity with China since the outbreak. China has made remarkable progress in the battle against the coronavirus, and leaders of over 170 countries and more than 40 international organizations such as the United Nations have expressed solidarity with, sympathy and support for the country, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Tan Jian told a press conference in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa on Friday. The ambassador suggested that international and regional cooperation be expanded, and that good communication with the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as information and experience sharing with relevant countries be continued. Considering the declining trend of new cases and the rising numbers of recovered patients in China as positive signs, Tan expressed optimism over China's prospects for economic growth. Although there will be a moderation in economic growth for the first quarter, he said "we are confident that the economy will also bounce back. China will meet its economic and social development goals this year. It is our firm belief that China will prevail over this epidemic and emerge stronger." "China has made significant sacrifices. Our containment and mitigation efforts are paying off. The situation is witnessing positive changes across the country," he said, noting that the WHO said the epidemic in China, which peaked and plateaued between Jan. 23 and Feb. 2, has been declining steadily since then. | 
