BEIJING — China will further expand international cooperation and offer help to other countries and regions in their fight against the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), according to a commerce official on March 12.

Li Xingqian, an official with the Ministry of Commerce, made the remarks at an online news briefing.

"We will always remember the sincere help offered by other countries and international organizations to China when it fights hard against the epidemic," Li said. "While overcoming its own difficulties, China will offer assistance within its ability to relevant countries, especially countries and regions hit hard by the virus."

China will further expand international and regional cooperation, and share with the world its experience in preventing and controlling the epidemic, Li said.

The Chinese government will continue to encourage its enterprises to export face masks and other medical supplies to make its due contributions to the global fight against COVID-19, according to the official.