Beirut: Caretaker Health Minister Firas Abiad received a significant shipment of medical supplies from China at Rafic Hariri International Airport on Monday, an event that underscores the deepening ties and solidarity between the two nations during Lebanon’s ongoing crises.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the delivery was attended by Chinese Ambassador Qian Minjian, who participated in the signing ceremony in the VIP lounge of the airport. Abiad emphasized that the 55.7 tons of medical equipment will greatly enhance the operational capacity of hospitals across the nation, particularly within intensive care units. The supplies, he mentioned, will be distributed primarily to public hospitals.
“This timely aid sends a vital message of solidarity from China to Lebanon,” Abiad stated during the event, adding, “It reassures the Lebanese people that they are not alone during this critical time and underscores China’s support amid the ongoing crises.”
Further elaborating on the significance of the aid
, Abiad reflected on past support from China, including during the COVID-19 pandemic and following the Beirut port explosion. He thanked China for its continued diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in Lebanon and condemned the attacks on medical personnel and healthcare facilities, which he described as war crimes.
In response, Ambassador Qian Minjian reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Lebanon, particularly in times of war which have led to severe casualties and displacement. “We gather today to witness China’s donation of urgent medical supplies to Lebanon,” Minjian said, stressing China’s unwavering support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and security and condemning indiscriminate violence against civilians.
Minjian concluded his remarks with a hopeful note on the swift return of peace and stability to Lebanon, which would enable displaced populations to return to their homes.