Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson has lauded China’s role in the international struggle against the COVID-19 pandemic and its efforts assisting other countries counter the outbreak.
“The government and people of China lead the way in suppressing coronavirus& generously aiding countries across the world,” Seyyed Abbas Mousavi said in tweet on Saturday.
“The Chinese bravery, dedication & professionalism in COVID-19 containment deserve acknowledgment,” he said, adding that Iran has “always been thankful to China in these trying times”.
The Gvt. & ppl. of #China lead the way in suppressing #coronavirus & generously aiding countries across 🌍. The Chinese bravery, dedication & professionalism in COVID19 containment deserve acknowledgment. 🇮🇷 has always been thankful to 🇨🇳 in these trying times. #StrongerTogether
— S.A MOUSAVI (@SAMOUSAVI9) April 5, 2020
As of Saturday, confirmed cases of COVID-19 have topped 1.2 million cases across the world.
China, where the outbreak began last year, however, reported only 30 new infections on Saturday as infections surged in the United States and Europe.
Taking a break from what is appears to be the peak of the outbreak, China has sought to assist countries grappling with the pandemic by providing medical aid and supplies.
Iran, which sent several aid shipments to China during the height of the coronavirus outbreak in the country, was sent its ninth aid shipment from China on Sunday.
#Tehran's landmark Azadi tower lit up in solidarity with Chinese people as they fight novel coronavirus.
— Iran Foreign Ministry 🇮🇷 (@IRIMFA_EN) February 19, 2020
Stay strong #China, stay strong #Wuhan!
🇮🇷 🇨🇳 pic.twitter.com/06HW4eeS4R
According to Iran’s Fars News Agency, the shipment contained about one million items consisting of masks, protective clothing and medicine.
Speaking to Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani last month, President Xi Jinping said the Iranian government and people offered sincere and friendly support and assistance to China when the virus first emerged in the country.
“To help Iran fight the epidemic, China has sent materials and medical experts to Iran,” he said.