Countries urged to block spread of novel coronavirus

China is willing to work with countries such as Japan and South Korea in taking necessary measures to block the transnational spread of the novel coronavirus, Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Tuesday.

Confirmed infections on the Chinese mainland rose by 508 on Monday to 77,658, according to the National Health Commission.

With a daily increase of 71 deaths, a total of 2,663 people have succumbed to the pathogen.

While the country has seen a downward trend in new infections, the situation is worsening in other countries. Agence France-Presse reported there are more than 2,000 cases and 30 deaths outside China.

South Korea, Italy and Iran have seen sharp increases in infections and deaths, while several Middle Eastern countries reported their first cases, AFP reported.

"China is paying close attention to the spread of the virus in Japan and South Korea, and we completely relate to what they are going through," Zhao said at a daily news conference.

Noting that China, Japan and South Korea are close neighbors, Zhao said the three countries should help each other and advance cooperation.

He said Beijing will share information and experience with the two countries, and will provide support and assistance within its ability and according to their needs.

China is on high alert as the virus spreads internationally, especially in neighboring countries.

Areas of China that are near to and in close contact with South Korea and Japan－such as Qingdao, Weihai and Yantai in Shandong province, Dalian in Liaoning province and the Yanbian Korean autonomous prefecture in Jilin province－have boosted preventive measures for overseas arrivals.

These areas have enhanced border screening and quarantine measures and have restricted the entry of foreign nationals and required their isolation.

The Qingdao city government announced in a statement on Monday that it would strengthen risk assessment and port quarantine measures, and would strictly implement airport screening.

All arrivals, except those who need immediate isolation or further observation, should go to their accommodations in vehicles provided by local government, the statement said.

Those who have homes in the city must undergo a 14-day isolation, and those who are visiting should stay at designated hotels, it said.

Li Jiacheng, an associate professor at Liaoning University's School of International Studies and a research fellow at the Charhar Institute think tank, said the spread of the epidemic has become a regional challenge facing China, Japan and South Korea.

Combating the virus has united the three countries, which gives greater meaning to the proposal to build a community with a shared future, he said. The events also provide an opportunity for the three countries to carry out public health cooperation through the World Health Organization, he added.

As businesses, including foreign companies, resume production in China, some employees from Japan and South Korea will return to the country, Li said.

"China has accumulated experience in coping with the epidemic. With many companies increasing production of medical supplies such as face masks, goggles and protective clothing, we could provide necessary assistance to Japan and South Korea after meeting our own needs," he added.