State Minister of Regional Cooperation, Tharaka Balasuriya recently told colleagues from China, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan that the country faced a significant shortfall in resources in the wake of the second wave of the coronavirus.

Balasuriya also appreciated the support received from countries including China, which provided equipment and medical supplies, and urged regional countries to increase cooperation on a number of areas.

Among these are sharing of rapid testing equipment, ventilators and experiences in diagnostics, treatment and medicine; early access to a vaccine that is affordable to developing countries; closer cooperation and sharing of experiences on border control, cross border transmission, containment measures at points of entry and emergency response; assistance and sharing of experiences on economic recovery including debt relief and cooperation to ensure smooth functioning of industrial and supply chains.

The Chinese Embassy in Colombo said in a media statement that on November 10 2020, China, Sri Lanka together with Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan held a vice foreign ministerial-level video conference on COVID-19 response, chaired by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui. Regional Cooperation State Minister of Sri Lanka Tharaka Balasuriya, Foreign Secretary Of Bangladesh Masud Bin Momen, Foreign Secretary of Nepal Bharat Raj Paudyal, Foreign Secretary of Pakistan Sohail Mahmood joined the online discussion.”

“In the opening remarks, Vice Minister Luo Zhao said that the second wave of COVID-19 epidemic is hitting the world and the global economy is in a deep recession. As developing countries and friendly neighbours, the five countries face similar challenges in responding to the epidemic and restoring their economies. We should consolidate the consensus on fighting COVID-19, continue cooperation, and transmit the “positive energy” of regional countries facing challenges. The Chair of the conference gave an introduction on China’s latest achievements and experience in the fight against COVID-19, as well as China’s economic recovery and efforts to accelerate the establishment of a “dual circulation” development pattern in which domestic economic cycle plays a leading role while international economic cycle remains its extension and supplement.”

“State Minister Balasuriya briefed other four countries about Sri Lanka’s strategies and achievements in the fight against pandemic. Among the multiple measures taken to prevent the spread of Covid19 includes localized lockdowns, limiting inter-district travel, and discouraging movement of individuals. In addition, steps have also been taken to introduce the ‘work from home’ concept to schools, universities and also places of work to prevent social isolation. He also praised the very effective public health system throughout the country, as well as the effective contribution of the public by cooperating with the authorities and adhering to health guidelines.”

“Other parties appreciated China’s material assistance, experience sharing and commitment to make the COVID-19 vaccine an international public good. All five countries expressed their commitment to unite to fight against the epidemic, deepen cooperation in jointly building the Belt and Road Initiative, maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains, promote economic recovery and improve people’s livelihood, and jointly promote the building of a community of human health. They also agreed that the meeting was useful and constructive and looked forward to the next round for further discussion.”