Islamabad, 8 December 2022 (TDI): United States Agency for International Development (USAID) donated oxygen commodities to Pakistan. In this regard, a handing-over ceremony took place on Wednesday.
The ceremony was held in the office of the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination (NHSR&C) in Islamabad. The Ambassador of the United States (US) to Pakistan, Donald Blome graced the ceremony.
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The Ambassador donated $7.5 million worth of medical oxygen supplies to the NHSR&C on behalf of the US government through USAID support. It was received by the Federal Health Minister of Pakistan Abdul Qadir Patel.
The support will provide training to 163 hospitals throughout Pakistan to increase their capability to treat patients suffering from severe COVID-19 and other lung conditions.
Speaking during the ceremony, Qadir Patel said, “We are thankful to the US government for their continued support during COVID-19 and especially during the recent floods.”
The Minister of Health further added that these efforts reflect the strong bilateral relations between Pakistan and the US.
Remarks by US Ambassador
Ambassador Donald Blome while addressing the ceremony stated, “Today’s donation is not just about COVID-19. It is an investment into Pakistan’s long-term health system.”
This assistance started at the very outset of COVID, continued throughout the pandemic, and is now addressing the lasting effects of the floods on health. It is a prime example of the long history of US assistance to Pakistan.” The Envoy continued.
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While noting the continuous support of the US government, Blome reiterated, “The United States was there at the beginning, and we will continue to find ways to support Pakistan as it recovers and rebuilds from disasters.”
He added that the US government donation provided thousands of essential supplies and equipment for oxygen therapy that the Ministry of Health had requested.
Along these lines, Ambassador highlighted, “The US government will also develop a web-based information system. It will allow real-time surveillance of patient oxygen levels & strengthen Pakistan’s medical oxygen systems.”
It is pertinent to note that in the last 24 hours, Pakistan has recorded 24 new cases of COVID with 26 critical cases under observation.
Additionally, 34 patients have recovered from the deadly virus as per the official statistics provided by the government of Pakistan.
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