Photo: Chinese embassy in Myanmar

Nay Pyi Taw (People's Daily) - A special flight of China Eastern Airlines arrived at Yangon International Airport on Thursday midnight, bringing tons of medical equipment badly needed in Myanmar.

Zaw Than Htun, the Director General of the Ministry of Health and Sports of Myanmar, and Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Chen Hai exchanged encouragements at the airport.    

Chen said China and Myanmar are close neighbors and naturally in a community with a shared future. “When China was suffering from the outbreak of COVID-19, Myanmar people donated 200 tons of rice and many masks. A friend in need is a friend indeed. Now, we come back and reach our hands to Myanmar”, Chen said.

Zaw said the COVID-19 pandemic is spreading in most countries throughout the world, and Myanmar is also affected with 3 confirmed cases and very much likely to have more. 

“At this critical moment, we are in severe shortage of test kits and other protective facilities. Thanks to China’s assistance, and with these medical equipment, we can give more tests and provide better service to our people”, he said.

There are 3 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Myanmar, 2 from the UK and 1 from US. As the Tinggyan Festival is drawing near, many Myanmar workers are coming back from Thailand, which is more seriously affected by the virus. With these assistance, the Myanmar government will be well prepared to face the challenge of a possible outbreak of the COVID-19 which will harm both the people’s  health and the local economy. 

Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi has warned the public to be careful with this deadly virus, remain calm and follow the advice of health authority.