BEIJING — China will intensify cooperation with other members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in the battle against the novel coronavirus outbreak, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Feb 14.

Spokesperson Geng Shuang made the remarks at an online press briefing when responding to an SCO statement, in which the organization said it supports China's fight against the epidemic.

Calling the SCO a comprehensive regional organization with great international influence, Geng hailed it for advocating the "Shanghai Spirit," enhancing cooperation and mutual support in the spirit of solidarity, addressing new threats and challenges, and promoting common development and prosperity.

Geng said since the outbreak of the epidemic, leaders of the SCO member states have all sent messages, in which they spoke highly of China's forceful measures and expressed their willingness to provide support and assistance.

"The SCO statement once again showcased the member states' tradition of sharing weal and woe through thick and thin," Geng said.

"China will continue to closely cooperate with the international community including the SCO member states to jointly fight the epidemic and uphold regional and global public health security," said the spokesperson.