By Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) had announced earlier today (2 October) that the Singaporean government will be assisting Myanmar in combating COVID-19.
In the press statement that was released, Minister of Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan had a phone call with State Counsellor of Myanmar, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi today.
Both of them “reaffirmed the excellent ties” between Singapore and Myanmar, and expressed appreciation for the mutual assistance and support during the pandemic.
It was reported that the Singaporean government will be providing Myanmar 250,000 COVID-19 diagnostic tests, one million surgical masks, as well as 200,000 bottles of hand sanitiser.
These items are a supplement to Singapore’s earlier contribution of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machine, diagnostic tests and other medical supplies to support Myanmar in handling the coronavirus.
The statement added that both Dr Balakrishnan and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi agreed that the ASEAN Member States should “continue to work closely” to strengthen the resilience of supply chains and “keep economies open and connected”.
Both also support for ASEAN to intensify cooperation with external partners on the research, development, production and distribution of vaccines and medicines.
Dr Balakrishnan shared about this announcement on his Facebook page as well.