THE People’s Republic of China (PRC) has ramped up its support to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services against COVID-19 and China’s Sinopharm vaccine rollout in Solomon Islands by providing USD150, 000 00 or SBD1.2 million for the cause.
Its Ambassador His Excellency Li Ming was joined by Health Minister Dr. Culwick Togamana in attending the handover ceremony of the funding assistance last Wednesday.
“It is a pleasure indeed for us to provide this funding support to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in its ongoing fight against COVID-19. I sincerely hope that the funding will further safeguard the health and safety of the people of Solomon Islands during this global pandemic,” Ambassador Li said at the ceremony.
Ambassador Li reiterated messages of the Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Global Health Summit on May 21st that China will provide additional USD3 billion aid over the next three years to support COVID-19 response and economic recovery for developing countries.
“China will provide more vaccines to the best of its ability on the basis of 300 million doses of vaccines already supplied to the world. China will support waiving intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines and to promote fair and equitable distribution of vaccines. China will continue to support the implementation of the global health governance, and to build a global community of health for all,” the Ambassador said.
Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Togamana expressed gratitude and appreciation to the government of China.
“My Ministry is very grateful, filled with gratitude and sincere appreciation towards the government and people of China for the continuous support rendered towards health efforts against COVID-19 pandemic including COVID-19 vaccination”, Dr. Togamana said.
Dr. Togamana said the funds will be allocated to roll out and logistical costs to ensure that MHMS continue to provide important services in protecting the country from COVID-19 community transmission.
“I wish to also sincerely thank the Chinese community volunteers to support the roll out of Sinopharm at the Central Field Hospital,” the Minister said.
