NZ to contribute NZ $1mn to India's fight against COVID-19
New Zealand will give one million NZ dollars to the Red Cross to assist India as it grapples with a COVID-19 surge, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta announced on Wednesday. The assistance was announced as India observed a single-day rise of 3,60,960 coronavirus cases, which pushed the total tally to 1,79,97,267, while the death toll crossed two lakh following 3,293 fresh fatalities.
'We stand in solidarity with India at this difficult time'
We stand in solidarity with India at this difficult time, and commend the tireless efforts of India's frontline medics and healthcare workers who are working hard to save lives, said Mahuta. "Aotearoa (Maori name for New Zealand) will contribute NZ $1 million to the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) while they respond to the current surge in COVID-19 cases," NZ Herald reported.
IFRC is looking at scaling up emergency operations across India
The International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) is working directly with the local Indian Red Cross Society to provide oxygen cylinders, oxygen concentrators, and other crucial medical supplies. The IFRC is also looking at scaling up emergency operations across India by providing an intensified ambulance and blood service and distributing personal protective equipment and hygiene kits to communities in need.
We will stand ready to assist the Indian government: Mahuta
"We believe a contribution to an international organization that has a reputation for delivery is the most practical assistance we can make to India currently," said Mahuta. We will stand ready to assist the Indian government. We extend our deepest sympathies to the whanau (extended family in Maori) and friends of those who have had their lives cut short by COVID-19, she said.
NZ imposed temporary ban on travelers coming from India
New Zealand earlier this month had imposed a temporary ban on travelers coming from India, including its citizens, from April 11 to 28 due to a surge in COVID-19 cases among visitors to this country.
