BEIJING — China on Jan 31 criticized "unfriendly US comments" amid China's fight against novel coronavirus outbreak, saying what the US side did was "certainly not a gesture of goodwill".

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying made the remarks after certain US officials made some unfriendly comments while China is doing its best to fight the epidemic.

The US Secretary of Commerce said the virus could help bring jobs back to the United States. In addition, the US Department of State issued a notice to raise travel advisory on China to the highest grade of warning, which is currently placed on Iraq and Afghanistan.

Currently the Chinese people are going all out to fight against the epidemic, Hua said, stressing that acting with openness, transparency and a high sense of responsibility, the Chinese government keeps the international community including the United States well-informed with timely updates and shared relevant data.

"A friend in need is a friend indeed. Many countries have offered China support in various means," she said. "In sharp contrast, certain US officials' words and actions are neither factual nor appropriate."

Just as the WHO recommended against travel restrictions, the US rushed to go in the opposite way, Hua said, adding this was certainly not a gesture of goodwill.

China has every confidence that with the resolute leadership of the Communist Party of China, the enormous strength of socialism with Chinese characteristics and the strong support from the international community, the Chinese people, fighting with one heart and mind, will definitely win the battle against the epidemic.

China will also overcome any difficulty lying ahead to realize the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, she added.