People’s Republic of China Provides PPE’s Worth Over $500,000 to Fiji

New assistance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE’s) valued over $500,000 has been provided by the People’s Republic of China to support Fiji’s national response to the second wave of COVID-19.

The first batch of consignment comprises of new PPEs including 550,000 surgical masks, 2000 gowns, 200 thermal guns and it arrived into Fiji this week Thursday. The assistance is mobilised by the Chinese Embassy in Fiji and People’s Government of Guangzhou Municipality, in the Guangdong Province.

In acknowledging the assistance, Honourable Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Ifereimi Waqainabete expressed his appreciation to the People’s Republic of China for the timely support rendered to Fiji.

Minister Waqainabete said PPEs is an essential resource for the health care professionals and this assistance also attests to the commendable efforts of thousands of Fiji’s frontline workers who have dedicated their lives to serve the nation and safeguard the wellbeing of their fellow Fijians.

Minister Waqainabete further stated that while Fiji has a long and tough road ahead, working in solidarity is of paramount to get through the COVID-19 crisis.

Chinese Ambassador to Fiji, His Excellency Qian Bo said China understands the challenges Fiji is currently facing and through this assistance, China conveys its commitment to continue assisting Fiji at this time of great need.

“To fight the COVID-19, China will stand firmly with the people and government of Fiji. In China’s Guangdong Province, people are also in an arduous fight against COVID-19 now, but that won’t stop them from supporting their sister cities in battle with the virus.

“The PPEs will help our frontline workers prevent potential health risks and strengthen their confidence in performing tasks and providing protection to the rest of us. China will continue its help and push forward the bilateral cooperation further, contributing to the economic recovery of Fiji and help Fijian people back into a normal life early,” Ambassador Bo said.

The People’s Republic of China also assisted Fiji when it was affected by the first wave of COVID-19, last year.

The assistance from China has been through the donation of PPEs and medical supplies; with humanitarian assistance also provided in the aftermath of Severe Tropical Cyclones Yasa and TC Ana.

The People’s Republic of China has also reaffirmed its commitment to the region at the China and Pacific Islands Countries (PICs) Political Leadership Dialogue convened last week. The meeting paved the way forward for PICs and China in collectively, “Working together to build consensus across the ocean and pursue shared development.”