UNDP provides critical medical supplies to combat epidemic
By Fan Jingyi
People's Daily app
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Photos: The United Nations Development Program

Beijing (People’s Daily) – The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) is providing critical medical supplies through initial emergency funding of $500,000 worth of equipment to help China’s frontline health personnel combat the novel coronavirus epidemic. 


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Video source: The United Nations Development Program

The first batch of supplies was handed over to the Ministry of Commerce for distribution Wednesday at the UN Compound in Beijing. Included in the initial shipment are patient monitoring systems, infusion pumps, and other medical equipment. Much needed shipments of personal protective equipment (PPE) will also be arriving soon. This is vital to reduce the infection risk facing frontline health personnel. 

“The UNDP and the United Nations system stand firmly with the government and the people of China during this critical time. Our UNDP country office in Beijing is in close touch with relevant authorities to provide emergency support and assist with the procurement of critical medical supplies,” said UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner.

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The supplies will be delivered to health facilities with priority needs which are experiencing shortages due to unprecedented demand as a result of the outbreak.

 “I am heartened by the efforts that the government of China is making to rein in this challenging threat to public health in China and around the globe,” said Steiner. “The contribution that frontline health and emergency services at the epicenter of the epidemic in China are making, and the determination of the Chinese people, deserve our admiration,” he added. 

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The UNDP is working closely with the Chinese government to ensure that assistance is aligned with the country’s national priorities and response strategies. In addition, the UNDP is communicating regularly within the UN system to coordinate response efforts. It is also looking at different ways of helping personnel on the ground, who are fighting to stem the epidemic. 

“The UNDP stands together with everyone on the frontline of the battle against this epidemic,” said Beate Trankmann, UNDP resident representative in China, in a video statement issued last Friday. “With international solidarity and China’s strong resolve, we are confident that together we will win this fight.”