Tuesday 31 March 2020 Editorial
The Government of the People’s Republic of China today presented a cheque of USD$300,000 to the national government, for its response and preparedness efforts in addressing the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic.
Funding is made available through the China-Pacific Island Countries COVID-19 Response Fund, set up by the Chinese government to support the anti-virus efforts of the Pacific Island countries.
The Chinese Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Mr Xue Bing, made the cheque presentation to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Hon. Patrick Pruaitch, at the Port Moresby General Hospital today.
“The financial assistance will certainly go a long way in assisting the national government ‘s efforts in its endearvour to addressing the current COVID-19 pandemic. The fund will be used to purchase medical equipment and medical items for Port Moresby General Hospital,” Mr Pruaitch said.
In expressing the national government’s gratitude, Mr Pruaitch thanked the Chinese government for their kind and timely assistance, and for their continued efforts and collaboration.
“China is among one of the first countries to have responded positively in assisting the efforts of the national government to contain the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.
“The PNG-China bilateral relations is premised upon the principles of mutual understanding, cooperation and respect for one and another and that has been continuously reinforced and reflected in all facets of formal interaction between our respective governments and people,” Mr Pruaitch said.
He added the donation is a testament of the commitment demonstrated by China to assist PNG under the ambit of the two countries’ bilateral cooperation arrangements.
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Chinese Ambassador to PNG H.E Xue Bing and Hon. Patrick Pruaitch, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Trade yesterday during the presentation ceremony at Port Moresby General Hospital (courtesy, Public Affairs and Diplomacy, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade).