Aerial view of Tarawa, Kiribati. (Photo: AP)

Canberra (People’s Daily) -- The first batch of medical supplies donated by China was handed over to Kiribati on Friday.

During the handover ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to Kiribati Tang Songgen said China had overcome great difficulties in delivering the supplies in a timely manner by cargo ship when all commercial flights to Tarawa are suspended.

“This shows our strong commitment to China-Kiribati relations,” Tang said.

“Living in a community of a shared future for mankind, China stands with Kiribati and other countries to fight against COVID-19 and will provide more support within our capacity.”

This initial batch of Chinese medical supplies includes surgical masks, protective suits, protective gloves, protective goggles and infrared thermometers, and more supplies are on the way, said the Ambassador.

Taunaei Marea, Minister for Health and Medical Services of Kiribati who attended the ceremony, expressed great gratitude on behalf of the Kiribati government and people to the People’s Republic of China.

He said it is currently difficult to get these invaluable medical supplies on the market as countries tend to keep them for their own use or their production is affected by COVID-19.

“This displays true and genuine friendship and partnership between our two countries, particularly during this time of crisis,” the minister said.

The medical supplies will be utilized by the Ministry of Health and Medical Service and other ministries which are working to safeguard Kiribati and its people from COVID-19.