15 Jun 2021

China 'stands firm' with Fiji to fight Covid-19: Envoy

2:40 pm on 15 June 2021

China says it stands with Fiji in its fight against a second wave of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Fiji's health ministry has confirmed over 700 active cases of the virus and more than 1,000 infections since the outbreak started in April.

Chinese ambassador to Fiji Qian Bo.

Chinese ambassador to Fiji Qian Bo. Photo: Fiji govt

China's support has helped with a presentation of personal protective equipment (PPE) to Fiji last week valued at over $US246,000.

The consignment included 550,000 surgical masks, 2000 gowns and 200 thermal guns.

Chinese ambassador Qian Bo said they understood the challenges faced by Fiji and "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."

"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."

Fiji's Health Minister Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete said the equipment was an essential resource for healthcare professionals.

"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 well-being of their fellow Fijians," he said.

Waqainabete said Fiji had a long and tough road ahead and working in solidarity was paramount to get through the Covid-19 crisis.

The assistance was mobilised by the Chinese Embassy and the People's Government of Guangzhou Municipality in Guangdong.