Dear my friends in China,

As we mark the beginning of a new year, my heart goes out to friends in China who are suffering under the shadow of the novel coronavirus. The world is wary with fear of the virus lurking in the darkness. Chinese people are united in one and fearlessly fighting against the virus. As a friend of China, I would like to extend my deepest respect to the 1.4 billion Chinese people who are fighting against the epidemic; and sincere condolences to those who lost their lives because of the virus.

President Xi Jinping has more than once emphasized the priceless value of life. I firmly believe that the Chinese value of life and their wisdom accumulated for the past five thousand years will enable China to overcome this epidemic. I also believe that the powerful measures taken by the Chinese government under the leadership of President Xi, the national spirit of unity, and the selfless dedication of all medical staff will surely allow China to win the battle against the novel coronavirus. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the global community will continue to bring forth humanitarian assistance and work together to support China's huge efforts.

During my term as the Secretary-General of the United Nations, I have urged the promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals and called for the protection of human health. Likewise, I will stand together with the Chinese people in their battle against the epidemic. On January 30th, I had spoken with the Director-General of the World Health Organization, and reaffirmed my will to go all on overcoming the epidemic.

Dear my friends in China,

I believe in the power of pulling together in times of trouble.Working together, we can write a new chapter in history of how we fearlessly have battled to defend humanity and won.

Again, I would like to extend my deepest respect and sincere condolences to the Chinese people who are fighting against the epidemic. Let us not lose hope, as the glory of victory is near.

Ban Ki-moon

The chairman of the Boao Forumfor Asia

The 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations

January 31, 2020