China Supplies Anti Pandemic Support to Kiribati

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China - Kiribati Flags

Beijing, 23 February 2022 (TDI): China has sent anti-epidemic supplies to Kiribati’s capital Tarawa to assist the South Pacific island nation in dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak.

According to the Chinese Embassy in Kiribati, the medical supplies include oximeters, monitors, electrocardiographs, ultrasonic diagnostic devices, masks, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

China’s Ambassador to Kiribati namely Tang Songgen, stated that the anti – COVID – 19 supplies to Kiribati demonstrated the Chinese government’s and people’s profound affinity with the Kiribati government and people.

China will constantly stand behind Kiribati in the fight against COVID-19, and bilateral cooperation in pandemic control and public health will be strengthened. Another shipment of anti-COVID-19 supplies will be sent to Kiribati as soon.

China's COVID - 19 Supplies
Chinese Ambassador to Kiribati Tang Songgen (3rd, L) and Kiribati Minister of Health and Medical Services Tinte Itinteang (4th, L) pose for a group photo in front of the anti-epidemic supplies at the airport in Tarawa, Kiribati

Minister of Health and Medical Services of Kiribati namely Tinte Itinteang paid gratitude to the Chinese side for donating the supplies, which the island country desperately needed. He anticipated that both nations would strengthen their collaboration in pandemic preparedness and public health.

According to the World Health Organization, 2,847 COVID-19 cases with 11 fatalities have been reported in Kiribati between January 3, 2020, and February 22, this year. This assistance against COVID – 19 is not the first time, China has assisted the South Pacific island nation in dealing with the pandemic.

A new consignment of anti-COVID supplies sponsored by the Chinese government arrived in the Solomon Islands last Friday. The consignment was comprised of oxygen generators, oximeters, protective suits, and over 300,000 test kits.

China’s Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, Li Ming, stated that China is eager to expand its cooperation and exchanges with the Solomon Islands in all areas to achieve a better future for the bilateral relationship.

Solomon Islands’ Minister of Health and Medical Services namely Culwick Togamana has extended the profound appreciation to the Chinese government and people. He stated that in-time supply of test kits would be distributed to hospitals, local health centers, post-aides, and other rural institutions across the country.

According to him, all of these medical consignments are dire important resources that will strengthen the country’s capacity and competence to deal with the pandemic.