World

Chinese people stand firm with Rwandan counterparts in face of COVID-19

Tuesday, April 28th, 2020 00:00 | By
Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Rao Hongwei (R) and Rwandan Health Minister Daniel Ngamije display signed documents of medical supplies donated by the Chinese Government, in Kigali, capital city of Rwanda. (Xinhua)

KIGALI,

Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Rao Hongwei on Monday said the Chinese people stand firm with the Rwandan people at the trying times when Rwanda is battling with COVID-19.

Rao's remarks came one day after the Chinese government handed over donated medical supplies to the Rwandan counterpart in Kigali, capital city of Rwanda.

The donated materials, including protective face masks for medical use, surgical masks, disposable protective clothing, infrared thermometers, medical protective goggles, disposable sterilized rubber surgical gloves and medical isolation shoe covers, show China's determination and solidarity with Rwanda at this special moment, Rao told Xinhua in a written interview.

It is China's traditional virtue to repay goodwill with greater kindness, said the envoy, adding that China "will never forget" the assistance and support from Rwanda during China's "most difficult" period to defeat the virus.

The epidemic risk in China is approaching low level and socio-economic performance is gradually brought back onto the right track, according to him.

"While continuing the fight at home, China is willing to support and help other countries to the best of our ability," he said.

Being the world's largest producer of protective suits and medical masks, China's production capacity of medical materials is rapidly recovering and enhancing, which provides guarantee for the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains, as well as support for the fight against the pandemic across the world, Rao noted.

China will continue to cooperate with the international community including African countries like Rwanda, and contribute the Chinese wisdom and strength to better addressing global challenges and promoting the health and well-being of all mankind, the ambassador said.

The second batch of the materials for Rwanda is already in transit, according to the embassy.

Rwandan health minister Daniel Ngamije at the handing over ceremony expressed his gratitude towards the Chinese government and the Chinese people for the donation of the needed materials when Rwanda's anti-epidemic fight is at the crucial stage.

Close cooperation across the world holds the key to defeating the pandemic and Rwanda is willing to continuously deepen the cooperation with the Chinese side in the prevention of the virus, said Ngamije.

The minister also expressed confidence in Rwanda's success in the battle against the COVID-19 with the support of the international community including China.

As of Sunday evening, Rwanda reported 191 confirmed cases with 92 recoveries.

China has been supporting Rwanda's anti-coronavirus efforts since its first case was confirmed. Earlier this month, Chinese experts shared anti-epidemic experience in hospital management, emergency response and medical staff training with frontline doctors in Rwanda through a webinar. Chinese Enterprise Association in Rwanda had donated funds, while Chinese companies including China Star donated medical supplies.

The Chinese medical team to Rwanda are also assisting their Rwandan counterparts in the fight against the virus. (Xinhua)

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