China's 2nd COVID-19 vaccine donation arrives in Mozambique

The second shipment of COVID-19 vaccine donated to Mozambique by China arrived smoothly in the African country on Aug 6.

Chinese Ambassador to Mozambique Wang Hejun, Mozambican Health Minister Armindo Tiago and Deputy Health Minister Lidia Cardoso co-hosted the vaccine handover ceremony.

Wang said that since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese and Mozambican governments have always stood by each other in line with the principle of putting people and lives first, and China has been doing its best to support Mozambique in the fight against COVID-19 and help the country recover its economy and improve people's livelihoods.

Vaccines are a powerful weapon to overcome the pandemic, said Wang. China is the first country to provide a vaccine donation to Mozambique. This is a concrete manifestation of China's practical action to fulfill its solemn commitment to strengthen international cooperation in fighting the pandemic, to join hands to address global risks and challenges, and to make Chinese vaccines a global public good, as well as a vivid reflection of China-Mozambique high-level political mutual trust and unbreakable brotherhood.

He added that China will, within its capacity, continue to support the anti-pandemic fight and the economic and social development in Mozambique, and contribute to the building of a closer China-Africa community with a shared future and a global community of health for all.

Cardoso said that, over five decades, China and Mozambique have shared a traditional friendship with rich cooperative results and China is a long-lasting partner of Mozambique. She thanked China for its support to Mozambique's development in various areas especially its selfless help in Mozambique's anti-pandemic fight.

China was the first country to provide medical materials to Mozambique to help it cope with COVID-19, she said.

Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi launched a nationwide large-scale vaccination campaign in response to the third wave of pandemic, said Cardoso, adding that at the critical moment, Mozambique is grateful for the helping hand again from China and the vaccine aid will further support the country to advance its vaccination campaign.

Mozambique is willing to work hand in hand with China to combat the pandemic and deepen the two countries' friendship and cooperation in various areas.