June 09, 2020

The government of China made donations for COVID-19 measures to the Ministry of Health and Sports in Myanmar for the fourth time yesterday.

At the handing over ceremony held at the ministry in Nay Pyi Taw, the Chinese Ambassador Mr Chen Hai first said this 8 June marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Myanmar. He said both nations have established themselves with mutual respect, support, assistance and development through numerous hardships and are continuing this support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ambassador said that the overall situation is heading towards a positive note as the State Counsellor is leading the prevention, treatment and control measures for COVID-19. He said he hoped this donation, handed over on behalf of the government of China, would support Myanmar’s efforts against the disease and further strengthen the bilateral relations between the two nations.

Next, Union Minister Dr Myint Htwe spoke words of gratitude and mentioned that China had supported the ministry during the 2017 seasonal influenza as well. He said the success of controlling the disease to some degree is due to the public heeding the announcements of the ministry and actively participating along.

The Union Minister said that China has donated medicines, medical and laboratory equipment worth US$ 6.3 million, including this fourth donation, to Myanmar so far. He said Alibaba Foundation and Jack Ma Foundation have also made donations worth $ 142,500 as well.

The Union Minister thanked the government of China for sending medical professionals, providing laboratory training, and making donations for measures against COVID-19 to Myanmar.

Next, the Union Minister accepted the donation from China and handed over a certificate of honour to Mr Chen Hai in return.

This fourth donation included 140,000 hospital face masks, 30,000 N95 masks, 30,000 goggles, and 12,000 PPE suits all worth $ 1.06 million combined. —MNA(Translated by Zaw Htet Oo)