China hopes to contribute to the world's effort to tackle global public health challenges through the G20, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Thursday.

Geng made the remarks after Saudi Arabia said it will convene a virtual G20 Summit to address the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The virus is spreading fast across the world, causing public health crises in many countries and imposing serious impact on the economy, finance and society, Geng said, calling for major economies to strengthen coordination and cooperation.

The G20 should uphold the spirit of partnership and take the lead in fighting the pandemic and stabilizing growth, Geng said, adding that its members should act in a coordinated manner and send a signal of unity to overcome the challenges.