Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine is interested in coordinating efforts with China in the fight against the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic
In an interview with the Chinese Xinhua news agency, the text of which is quoted by the press service of the President's Office, Zelensky said the bilateral contacts between Ukraine and China were this year significantly limited as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. At the same time, the two countries effectively cooperated in fighting off the common challenge.
Read alsoRada goes on quarantine over COVID-19 spike among legislatorsThe president expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for the humanitarian aid provided to Ukraine, assistance in air lift of medical supplies, as well as the return of Ukrainian citizens from China.
"Thousands of test kits, face masks, goggles, gloves and other personal protective equipment were sent to hospitals at the onset of the pandemic in Ukraine this spring. This saved many Ukrainians. We are especially grateful to Chinese companies, NGOs, provincial people's governments and ordinary citizens for providing our country with much-needed and timely aid. This expression of friendly support is especially important and valuable for us in these difficult times," he said.
According to Zelensky, Ukraine is interested in further coordinating efforts with China to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic fallout.
"The issue of providing Ukrainians with a high-quality vaccine is especially important," he added.
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Background
- Ukraine said 4,069 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across country in the past day, September 30, which marks a steady trend toward faster spread of the disease.
- The total number of confirmed cases grew to 213,028.
- According to the World Health Organization, around 700 COVID-19 vaccine trials are being conducted worldwide.
- Zelensky has expressed hope that a vaccine against COVID-19 will become available in 2021.
