China, among others, extend solidarity with India on Covid surge

at 9:43 pm

New Delhi (NVI): As India faces massive surge in Covid-19 cases, China today said that it “firmly supports” the Indian government and people in fighting the pandemic and is willing to provide support and assist in accordance with the needs of the “Indian side”.

Apart from China, the European Union (EU) and Australia have also expressed solidarity with India as it battles a second wave of the pandemic.

However, the Chinese solidarity comes amid the border tensions between the two countries in Eastern Ladakh region along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). As per reports, these tensions remain high despite some force pullbacks this year.

In a statement the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Zhao Lijian, said, “We have noticed the relevant reports and China expresses sincere condolences to the recent deterioration of the situation in India. The Chinese government and the Chinese people firmly support the Indian government and people in fighting the pandemic, and are willing to provide support and assistance in accordance with the needs of the Indian side. The Chinese side is maintaining communication with the Indian side on this. China believes that the Indian people will be able to overcome the pandemic at an early date.”

Meanwhile, Charles Michel, President of the European Council tweeted: “The #EU stands in solidarity with Indian people amidst resurgent #COVID19 pandemic. The fight against the virus is a common fight. We will discuss our support and cooperation at EU-India Leaders’ meeting on 8 May with @narendramodi and @antoniocostapm.”

Australian foreign minister Marise Payne also tweeted, saying that Australia is sending solidarity to India as it tackles the pandemic.

“?? sends solidarity to our friends in ?? as it tackles this latest COVID-19 outbreak. India’s generosity and leadership in providing vaccines to our region is appreciated. We will continue to work together closely to respond to this global crisis,” she tweeted.

-ARK