Top US Senator Unveils 18-Point Plan To Hold China Accountable For Covid-19 Cover-Up; India A Link In The Scheme

In a move to hold the Xi Jinping led Chinese government accountable for its “lies, deception, and cover-ups” that led to the coronavirus pandemic, a top US senator has unveiled an 18-point plan.

The plan, inter alia, includes enhancing military ties with India, reports Hindustan Times.

As per reports, other prominent suggestions include moving manufacturing chain from China and deepening military-strategic ties India, Vietnam and Taiwan.

The US and China relations have deteriorated after the coronavirus outbreak. The US has expressed disappointment over Beijing's handling of the coronavirus which has claimed over 80,000 lives in America. China has also been accused of stealing Intellectual Property and research work.

Presenting his plan, Senator Thom Tillis said on Thursday (14 May) that the Chinese government maliciously covered up and enabled a global pandemic that has caused misery for so many Americans.

He further added, “This is the same regime that locks up its own citizens in labour camps, steals America’s technology and jobs, and threatens the sovereignty of our allies.”

The plain aims to establish a Pacific Deterrence Initiative and seeks immediate approval of the military's request for USD 20 billion in funding. It also calls for deepening military ties with regional allies and expand equipment sales to India, Taiwan and Vietnam.

"Move manufacturing back to the US from China and gradually eliminate our supply chain dependency on China. Stop China from stealing our technology and provide incentives to American companies to regain our technological advantage. Strengthen cybersecurity against Chinese hacks and sabotage," the plan stated.

Stating that China should be sanctioned for their atrocious human rights record, the plan further urges the Trump Administration to formally request the International Olympic Committee to withdraw the 2022 Winter Olympics from Beijing.

Tillis further suggested, “Ensure the independence of the WHO through investigations and reform. Expose and counter China’s predatory debt-trap diplomacy targeting developing countries. Increase intelligence sharing on potential pandemics and lead the creation of a watchdog organization to monitor foreign governments’ handling of deadly viruses.”