China understands why some countries are imposing restrictive
travel measures on its citizens to curb the spread of SARS, Foreign
Ministry spokeswoman Zhang Qiyue said here Tuesday.
But Zhang added, "We believe all sides should treat Chinese
citizens fairly as they go about their normal business."
Zhang said severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) was an
unexpected disaster, and it took time for countries to learn how to
deal with it.
"To prevent the further spread of SARS, some countries have adopted
temporary measures, including putting restrictions on people from
infected areas, or taking quarantine measures on entry. China feels
that is understandable," she said.
Zhang expressed hope that the epidemic would be brought under
control soon so normal exchanges between China and foreign
countries could continue as normally as possible.
(Xinhua News Agency May 14, 2003)