China to Ease 'Zero-COVID' Restrictions Amid Nationwide Protests

China to Ease, 'Zero-COVID' Restrictions , Amid Nationwide Protests.

China to Ease, 'Zero-COVID' Restrictions , Amid Nationwide Protests.

According to NBC News, state-run news agency Xinhua reported that Sun Chunlan, the vice premier in charge of pandemic response, .

... said the nation was facing , “a new situation and new tasks in epidemic prevention and control.”.

Sun reportedly emphasized the importance of improving treatment and medication while also increasing vaccinations, particularly among the older population.

Despite Chinese authorities easing COVID measures last month, recent outbreaks have resulted in millions of people being forced to remain in their homes.

NBC reports that restrictions have been eased in major cities including Guangzhou, Zhengzhou and Chongqing.

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Both Guangzhou and Zhengzhou have experienced increased COVID unrest and protests.

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Both Guangzhou and Zhengzhou have experienced increased COVID unrest and protests.

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Last week, a massive protest took place in Zhengzhou at the world's largest iPhone factory.

Authorities in China have been quick to stamp out protests and have increased police presence on the streets to prevent further public displays of dissent.

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Authorities in China have been quick to stamp out protests and have increased police presence on the streets to prevent further public displays of dissent.

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Recent nationwide protests have seen crowds calling for an end to strict COVID restrictions they claim contributed to a deadly fire in the Xinjiang region.

NBC reports that other protestors have called for sweeping democratic reform and even for President Xi Jinping to step down.