China-donated COVID-19 vaccine reaches Djibouti

A shipment of COVID-19 vaccine donated by the Chinese government arrived at the Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport on March 18.

A handover ceremony held at the airport was attended by Djiboutian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Djiboutian Health Minister Mohamed Warsama Dirieh and other Djiboutian government officials as well as Chinese Ambassador to Djibouti Zhuo Ruisheng.

On behalf of the country's president and people, Youssouf and Dirieh expressed their heartfelt thanks to the Chinese government and people in their speeches, saying that China always stands firm with Djibouti.

In the most difficult times of Djibouti's fight against the pandemic, China has taken the lead in assistance, offering valuable vaccine aid immediately after Djibouti asked for help. The arrival of the Chinese vaccine will greatly help the Djiboutian government smoothly carry out a nationwide vaccination program and further strengthen Djibouti's ability in fighting the pandemic.

Zhuo said that a friend in need is a friend indeed. Since the outbreak of the pandemic, China has not only provided medical supplies and sent experts to support Djibouti's anti-pandemic efforts, but has also become the first country to provide vaccine to Djibouti through bilateral assistance. This is a vivid illustration of the profound friendship between China and Djibouti and their people.

He said he believes that the Chinese vaccine will further help Djibouti's fight against the pandemic and promote economic recovery.

China will continue to do its best to support Djibouti and other countries in their fight against the pandemic, carry out international cooperation, strive for an early victory and build a community with a shared future and a global community of health for all, said Zhuo.