XI'AN — The northwestern Chinese city of Xi'an is expected to clear all areas classified as high and medium-risk for COVID-19 on Jan 25, provided no special circumstances arise, a government official said on Jan 22.

Zhang Fenghu, deputy secretary-general of the Xi'an Municipal Government, told a press conference that the prediction was made after careful expert study and evaluation.

Should the prediction become a reality, the ancient city, home to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, will resume regular prevention and control in most areas, Zhang said.

There are currently two medium-risk areas and one high-risk area in Xi'an.

As of 12 pm on Jan 22, the city had reported 2,053 confirmed local cases, with 1,667 recovered.