The UAE recently dispatched the third batch of medical aid to Damascus aimed at supporting the country's efforts to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) sent the aid shipment in coordination with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent as it will assist the Syrian medical sector in its endeavours to tackle the pandemic crisis in the country.

Arriving at Damascus on September 13, the medical aid consists of essential medications and medical supplies and equipment to help the healthcare professionals deal with the virus infections. The aid has been sent by the ERC as part of the UAE's humanitarian response to the global pandemic, noting that the Syrian capital received its first and second batches of medical supplies earlier this month.

Responding to the delivery, Dr. Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi, Secretary-General of the ERC, affirmed that the aid aircraft carried sufficient quantities of essential medicines and medical supplies and equipment for the assistance of thousands of healthcare workers in Syria. He further noted that the aid supply is part of the initiatives launched by the ERC under the directives of the UAE’s leadership and follow-up by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC).

Dr Al Falahi added that the UAE has been initiating all possible efforts to support friendly nations in their fight against the pandemic crisis.

"The UAE is making significant efforts to help friendly countries overcome the current health crisis and support them in reinforcing their health capacities," he said, noting that shipment was dispatched under the joint cooperation of ERC and its Syrian counterpart.

The aid contains medical supplies essential to comply with the COVID-19 precautionary and preventive measures while confronting the pandemic. The medical aid supply will also support the efforts of the healthcare staff working at the frontline to contain the virus in Syria, he further said.

WAM