Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of U.S. technology and chip giant Qualcomm Steve Mollenkopf said on Thursday he is fully "confident" about China's ability to overcome the challenges brought by the novel coronavirus outbreak.

"We have long known that the Chinese people are highly resilient, and we are fully confident in their ability to overcome the challenges presented by this situation," Mollenkopf said in a video message.

As a committed partner of China, Qualcomm has had a close relationship with China for more than 20 years, and is confident about the long-term positive trend of China's economic development, he said.

"At this very challenging time, our hearts and thoughts go out to all those affected by the coronavirus, and China as a whole," Mollenkopf said.

"We appreciate that the massive efforts being made in China to contain and fight against the virus are not only for China but for the rest of the world," he said. "Those in China involved in this fight have our profound respect and appreciation. It is no easy task."

He said Qualcomm has made a donation to support China's relief efforts.

Qualcomm has several thousand employees in China and their health and safety are very important, he said. "We are complying with the government regulations and taking measures to ensure their safe return to work."

Mollenkopf also said Qualcomm is in close communication with its Chinese business partners to understand their situation and make efforts to support them and their continuing business operations.

"We are pleased that many mobile technology-enabled applications are being put to good use to enable remote expert and medical consultation across borders and geographies, and through mobile e-commerce solutions, to enable people to secure daily essentials while minimizing the risk of exposure," he said.

"At Qualcomm, we will continue to look at how best we can help -- and to collaborate with our Chinese mobile ecosystem partners and those in adjacent industries like public health -- to ensure a bright future for all," the CEO said.