In a strong response to a recent Reuters investigative report, China has accused the United States of conducting a covert disinformation campaign aimed at discrediting Chinese COVID-19 vaccines in the Philippines.
The report, released on Friday, alleges that the U.S. military initiated a secret psychological operation to undermine China's growing influence in the Philippines during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This operation reportedly involved the use of social media accounts that impersonated Filipinos to spread false information about the safety and effectiveness of Chinese vaccines and other humanitarian aid provided by China.
\"People around the world are indignant about the U.S. military's actions, which lay bare the hypocrisy, malign intention, and double standards of the United States,\" stated a spokesperson from the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines. The spokesperson criticized the U.S. for prioritizing its own interests over global cooperation, especially during critical moments of the pandemic.
China emphasized its role as the first to supply COVID-19 response materials and vaccines to the Philippines. However, the spokesperson noted that the collaboration faced significant challenges due to alleged interference and sabotage by third countries and certain forces. \"By denying access to Chinese assistance, and in defiance of the global public opinion, the United States dares to spread rumors and spin stories on major global public health issues including the vaccine,\" the spokesperson added.
Highlighting that numerous insider accounts have emerged post-pandemic, the Chinese Embassy spokesperson pointed out that the Reuters report is one of the latest pieces of evidence revealing the true nature of these actions. The spokesperson urged the United States to cease its efforts to fabricate and disseminate misinformation against other nations.
The situation underscores the complexities of international relations during global health crises, where geopolitical motives can often influence public health efforts and collaborations.
Reference(s):
China slams U.S. disinformation campaign against its COVID-19 vaccines
cgtn.com
