Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe has said it was confident of China’s ability to contain the coronavirus, and expressed solidarity with the country over difficulties it has faced in the aftermath of the outbreak.
More than 300 people have died from the coronavirus in China since its outbreak in the country in December, with over 14 000 other confirmed cases recorded.
The virus, first recorded in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has since rapidly spread to many parts of the world, killing its first victim outside China in the Philippines at the weekend.
In a statement, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Monica Mutsvangwa said Zimbabwe stood with China at its hour of need, and was ready to offer any assistance that Beijing could want to help it contain the outbreak.
The two countries enjoy close ties, and on many occasions before and after Zimbabwe’s independence, China offered a critical helping hand to the country whenever it faced challenges.
“The government of Zimbabwe values our traditional friendship with China,” Mutsvangwa said.
“We stand ready to assist China in this fight and continue to strengthen the ties between our peoples in various fields for the benefit of both countries.”
She lauded the Chinese government for its swift response to the coronavirus, and expressed confidence that Beijing will soon or later bring the outbreak under control.
In addition to putting Wuhan under lock down, China has also put the entire country under controlled monitoring to curb the spread of the virus.
“We are pleased to note the good progress achieved so far and commend
China for its deep commitment to openness, transparency and international cooperation,” Mutsvangwa said.
“In the face of this demanding test, China has shown an admirable sense of responsibility and global leadership, which has been widely recognised by the World Health Organisation and the international community at large.”
“We are fully confident the indomitable Chinese nation, led by President Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party, will win the battle against the virus and push forward the frontier of human knowledge.”
New Ziana
