On 2 April, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi took a phone call from Foreign Minister Claudia Blum of Colombia.
Wang expressed China’s appreciation for President Ivan Duque Marquez’s letter of sympathy to President Xi Jinping right after the outbreak and Foreign Minister Blum’s public statements in support of China’s fight against COVID-19. In view of the spread of the virus in Columbia and other Latin American countries, Wang expressed China’s sympathy to the Colombian people. He noted that China is actively providing assistance of medical supplies to Latin American countries. China also arranged a video conference for Chinese health experts to share experience with their Latin American counterparts, which was well received. China will donate emergency supplies to Colombia and facilitate the country’s purchase of supplies from China if necessary. Wang reaffirmed China’s confidence that under the leadership of President Duque, the people of Colombia will definitely defeat the outbreak.
As this year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Wang pointed out that the best way to celebrate it is to join hands in defeating the virus and such experience will further consolidate the friendship and cooperation between the two countries. Wang noted that China will as always ensure the normal life and work of Colombian nationals in China and believes that Colombia will also continue to protect the health and safety of Chinese citizens in Colombia.
Blum spoke highly of China’s effective measures and success in getting the epidemic under control inside the country, which has set a good example for Colombia and the rest of the world. She expressed appreciation for China’s assistance to and experience sharing with Colombia and other Latin American countries. Colombia will work with China to earnestly implement the important agreements reached between the two heads of state and make good preparations for the celebration of the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Blum reiterated Colombia’s full commitment to protecting the safety and health of Chinese citizens in Columbia.