China to allocate $2 billion to help countries hit by coronavirus

During the 73rd World Health Assembly, held under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO), Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to provide financial aid for countries severely affected by the coronavirus. "China will provide 2 billion US dollars over two years to help with Covid-19 response, and with economic and social development in affected countries, especially developing countries," Xi said. Some experts think that  by such a move China is trying to smooth the situation. Many countries are already openly questioning China's role in the coronavirus outbreak. Besides, Chinese officials have been accused of downplaying the severity and contagiousness of the virus. Currently, China is politically on the back foot and it is doing everything in its power to improve its battered image. Besides, this amount of financial aid is not so big and China would pay far more if it charged guilty for the virus outbreak. For developed countries, this money is like a drop in the ocean. This is why China stated that financial aid would firstly be allocated among the third world countries. Some experts baldy assume that Beijing is simply trying to buy the loyalty of some countries. Not long ago, China also provided financial assistance to the World Health Organization. Curiously enough, it happened after the US publicly criticized the WHO and halted funding. China immediately expressed its willingness to cooperate with the WHO. However, at the same time, China refused to allow WHO experts to investigate the origin of the coronavirus. It seems China is playing a double game but without success yet.