China hints at relaxing zero-Covid norm; IMF chief urges targeted policy

Police leveraging powers of the country's surveillance apparatus against protesters

China on Tuesday said it will take steps to “minimise” the impact of its draconian coronavirus lockdowns, amidst the unprecedented public protests against President Xi Jinping’s stringent zero-Covid policy that evoked strong support from the UN, the US and other nations.

Seeking to address international concerns, Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said China has been adjusting the zero-Covid policy based on the changing circumstances.

“We will keep improving science-based maximum protection to people's lives and health and minimise the Covid impact on social economic development,” he said at a press conference.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva urged Beijing to undergo a “recalibration” of