If the need arises the Chinese Government is ready to dispatch Chinese Medical teams to assist the Ministry of Health and Medical Services combat COVID-19.

The assurance was made by the Chinese Ambassador to Fiji Qian Bo while handing over assistance of $10,000 and laptops to the National Archives of Fiji yesterday.

Ambassador Qian said Chinese medical experts would help Fijians during the pandemic, however the Fijian Government was doing exceptionally well in containing the virus.

Yesterday’s handover was a result of the ambassador’s visit to the Archives Office last month on August 6 and the discussions and relations forged.

Mr Qian said the contribution was a reflection of the embassy’s commitment to strengthen co-operation on training and technical support for Fiji’s National Archives.

“There are great opportunities for us to strengthen our co-operation and I’m happy China has already established very good relations with the National Archives of Fiji. China and Fiji are real friends and we are brothers and sisters,” Mr Qian said.

Despite the economic downturn wrought by the pandemic, China has been able to do a lot for the rest of the world, including a cash contribution of approximately FJD$1 million to Fiji and donation of dozens of batches of Personal Protective Equipment.

“China will always stand by Fiji and our hearts and thoughts are with the people of Fiji. We will strengthen our cooperation in all respects and we will work with the Fijian people to promote comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development,” he said.

National Archives of Fiji director, Collin Yabaki, acknowledged the assistance from the embassy and said it came at an opportune time when the pandemic had crippled the world impacting resources for organisations.

He said the contribution would assist staff to effectively and efficiently conduct their work as archivists and custodians of Fiji’s historical records.

“We intend to roll out an improved record management training programme to all Government ministry’s.Conduct much needed annual stocktake of archival holdings and our vast library collection, ensure that we provide a more secured platform working towards our goal of preservation inventory and accessibility of Fiji’s documentary heritage to the people of Fiji both externally and internally.”

Edited by Selita Bolanavanua

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