Coronavirus: UAE delivers seven tonnes of medical aid to Sudan

The essential supplies will be used by thousands of healthcare workers in the African country

Sudanese medical students prepare sterilisers to help combat the spread of Covid-19. AFP  
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The UAE has flown seven tonnes of vital medical supplies to Sudan to aid the country's fight against Covid-19.

The crucial cargo, including test kits, will reach more than 7,000 healthcare workers in the North African country.

As of Wednesday, Sudan had recorded 140 coronavirus cases, including 13 deaths.

While infection numbers remain relatively low, there are concerns the country's healthcare system could struggle to cope if a surge in cases did occur.

Sudan this week began a three-week lockdown to contain the virus.

The government had earlier shut down air travel and land borders, as well as universities and schools. Mosques have also been closed.

"The UAE and Sudan are bound by historic ties of brotherhood and exchanges across the political, economic, and cultural fields," said Hamad Mohammed Humaid Al Junaibi, UAE's Ambassador to Sudan.

"Since the founding of our nation, Sudan has stood by the UAE as a steadfast partner in the region."

Mr Al Junaibi said the aid represented "the enduring nature of our partnership, which is based on the mutual recognition that extending a hand of co-operation enhances the welfare of both of our countries and peoples.

He said alliances are of great importance in the fight against the pandemic.

To date, the UAE has dispatched more than 270 tonnes of aid to 25 countries, supporting more than 270,000 medical professionals in the process.

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