The United Arab Emirates has sent an aid plane carrying 80,000 COVID-19 vaccines to Mauritania to strengthen the country's efforts against the pandemic. The UAE sent the medical aid shipment through the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) to support the health sector in Mauritania in its efforts to curb the spread of the virus.

The medical aid is also in conjunction with the opening of the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed field hospital aimed at treating COVID-19 infected patients. The field hospital has been opened to provide enhanced protection to vulnerable sections of society, the elderly, and people suffering from chronic diseases.

Responding to the aid delivery, Hamad Ghanem Al Mehairi, UAE Ambassador to Mauritania, underlined the robust bilateral relations between the two nations. He added that the UAE is always present to support Mauritania with its humanitarian and development initiatives. This medical aid by the UAE reflects the country's continuous efforts to support people in brotherly Mauritania and provide them with necessary assistance during the critical time.

"For many years, the UAE has undertaken great efforts in Mauritania in various aspects, foremost of which is the interest in the health aspect," Al Mehairi added.

ERC Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi affirmed that the medical aid support has come in line with the UAE's ongoing initiatives to limit the spread of the virus around the world and assist brotherly nations in their fight against the pandemic. The initiatives are based on the UAE's pioneering and humanitarian role aimed at combating the COVID-19 pandemic across the globe.

He added that these COVID-19 vaccines will enhance the preventive and precautionary measures among Mauritanian people and help in controlling the spread of the pandemic to facilitate the stage of recovery.

To date, the UAE has sent more than 2,200 tonnes of medical supplies to over 136 countries as part of its humanitarian efforts to overcome the global health crisis. 

WAM