Ambassador of China to Maldives Zhang Lizhong has stated China is currently in efforts to transport the aid requested by Maldives to contain the spread of COVID-19.
In a tweet, the ambassador said materials are ready to be sent to Maldives, although there are difficulties in transporting the materials due to suspension of flights. He said China is currently in efforts to identify a proper route to transport the aid to Maldives.
Furthermore, the ambassador said China remains thankful for the support and assistance received by Maldives when COVID-19 broke out in China. He said it is now time for China to reciprocate the assistance as Maldives looks to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid responded to the Chinese ambassador’s tweet by acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of China, adding Maldives fully understands the challenges faced by the cancellation of several flights. He said Maldives hopes to receive the aid from China very soon.
Following the outbreak of COVID-19, direct flights between Maldives and China have been suspended. The rapid progression of the virus all over the world has led to the suspension of flights between Maldives and several other countries as well, leading to difficulties in the transport of people and materials to Maldives.