China donates COVID-19 medical supplies to Cuba

Chinese Ambassador to Cuba Chen Xi (L) exchanges donation delivery certificates with Cuba's deputy minister of public health Luis Fernando Navarro in Havana, Cuba, April 6, 2020. China on Monday donated medical supplies to Cuba to help stem the spread of COVID-19 on the island. (Photo by Joaquin Hernandez/Xinhua)

HAVANA -- China on April 6 delivered a donation of medical supplies to Cuba to help stem the spread of COVID-19 on the island.

A total of 500 infrared thermometers, 2,000 sets of protective clothing, 10,000 surgical masks and many goggles and shoe covers donated by the Chinese government arrived in Cuba on Sunday night.

In addition, 10,000 protective suits and 100,000 face masks donated by China's Zhengzhou Yutong Bus Co., one of the world's leading bus makers, arrived on the island on the same day.

"We strongly believe that Cuba will be able to beat the epidemic thanks to the efficient management of its government and people," Chinese Ambassador to Cuba Chen Xi said during a delivery ceremony at the headquarters of the Cuban Ministry of Public Health on Monday.

More donations from China will arrive in the coming days, Chen added.

"We thank the Chinese government for its support. This is a clear proof of mutual collaboration and friendship between Cuba and China," said Luis Fernando Navarro, Cuba's deputy minister of public health.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla on Monday thanked the Chinese government for its donation, saying on Twitter that in a time of pandemic, solidarity and cooperation save lives.

As of Monday, Cuba reported 350 COVID-19 cases with nine deaths.