In a recent letter to CAAC Administrator Feng Zhenglin, Alexandre de Juniac, Director General and CEO of IATA, expressed his sympathy over the coronavirus outbreak in China and praised the robust response of the Chinese government in trying to curb the spread of the virus.

“The IATA team and I have been following closely the developments concerning the coronavirus outbreak in China. Our thoughts are with the people of China during this challenging time for the country,” said Alexandre de Juniac, adding that “the many stories that we have seen and heard that demonstrate the heroic commitment of all the people involved in responding to this public health emergency is admirable. I sincerely hope that we will be able to get the outbreak under control soon.”

He emphasized that “international coordination is critical in dealing with a public health emergency” and that “IATA supports the WHO’s recommendations…and at this point in time, we note that the WHO is not recommending any restriction of travel or trade with China.”

Alexandre de Juniac also said that the IATA team is in close contact with CAAC and “stands ready to assist where it is within our means to do so.”