On June 3rd, Chinese Ambassador Ma Jianchun called on Health Minister Ahmadou L Samateh, and discussed strengthening China-Gambia joint efforts in combating COVID-19 and other topics of cooperation.
Amb. Ma spoke highly of the effective measures to curb the spread of the virus implemented by the Gambian government under the leadership of H.E. President Adama Barrow. He particularly appreciated the efforts and contributions of Ministry of Health, including their repeated visits to the national border, medical facilities, quarantine spots and so on, releasing reliable information on the pandemic in a timely and accurate manner, as well as introducing protective measures to the public, setting a good example for people. Amb. Ma briefed Hon. Samateh on a series of important initiatives and measures proposed by Chinese President H.E. Xi Jinping at the openning session of the 73rd World Health Assembly, and said that the Chinese government would continue to provide material assistance for The Gambia to contain COVID-19, and share China’s experience. Amb. Ma further disclosed that a new batch of medical supplies from the Chinese government was scheduled to arrive in The Gambia soon.
For his part, Hon. Samateh expressed appreciation for the continuous support from the Chinese government and people. He was pleased to inform Amb. Ma that with comprehensive and strong measures taken, local transmission of the virus in The Gambia has been put under full control. He stressed that medical equipment and supplies from the Chinese government and entrepreneurs played a very crucial role in that process. Hon. Samateh mentioned the receipt of the third consignment of medical supplies donated by Jack Ma Foundation nearly two weeks ago, which included over 30,000 sets of personal protective equipment (PPE), 10 thermometers, 2 ventilators, 1 infrared detector and so on.
Hon. Samateh commended that these medical gear would continue to support The Gambia’s anti-pandemic work, and that the gesture embodied the deep friendship between peoples from The Gambia and China. He further expressed readiness in more closely working with China and the international community at large, so as to prevail the pandemic at an early date.
