China's top Covid official has signalled a possible relaxing of the country's strict zero-tolerance approach to the virus, after nationwide protests calling for an end to lockdowns and greater political freedom
Anger over China's zero-Covid policy - which involves mass lockdowns, constant testing and quarantines even for people who are not infected - has sparked protests in major cities including Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.
Ms Sun - a central figure behind Beijing's pandemic response - said this"new situation" required"new tasks". Officials yesterday eased restrictions to varying degrees in all of the city's 11 districts, including Haizhu, where recent protests took place. Ms Sun's remarks - as well as relaxations of rules by local authorities -"could signal that China is beginning to consider the end of its stringent zero-Covid policy," analysts said.
But demonstrators have also demanded wider political reforms, with some even calling for President Xi Jinping to stand down.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
China moves to deter zero-Covid protests and vaccinate older peoplePolice out in force after displays of civil disobedience unprecedented since president Xi Jinping assumed power a decade ago
Read more »
China protests: clashes spread to Guangzhou city over Covid lockdownBiggest wave of civil disobedience sweeps country since Xi Jinping took power a decade ago
Read more »
Fresh clashes in south China over Covid lockdowns as authorities warn of 'crackdown'Anger over China’s zero-Covid policies has been the trigger for the protests.
Read more »
Markets cautious as slide in tech stocks outweighs hopes that China could ease Covid curbsMarkets cautious as slide in tech stocks outweighs hopes that China could ease Covid curbs via IrishTimesBiz
Read more »
China blames local governments for handling of Covid outbreaksBeijing distanced itself from the crisis after unprecedented protests against President Xi Jinping and his zero-Covid policy. (via IrishTimesWorld)
Read more »
Oil jumps on hopes for easing in China's Covid controlsOil jumped today, buoyed by hopes that China would relax its Covid-19 controls after rare protests against the country's zero-Covid strategy over the weekend in big Chinese cities.
Read more »