TAIWAN TODAY – A large-scale donation of COVID-19 personal protective equipment for Taiwan’s Africa ally Kingdom of Eswatini, Caribbean ally Saint Lucia and Horn of Africa partner Somaliland was announced February 20 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Facilitated by the MOFA in collaboration with Hsinchu City-headquartered TSMC Charity Foundation—affiliated with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd.—and Taipei City-based Medtecs Group, the donation comprises 150,000 surgical masks, 11,000 isolation gowns, 7,000 coveralls, 6,000 headcovers, 6,000 shoe covers and 1,500 hazmat suits. The items are to be distributed to government agencies, health care facilities and the underprivileged.
According to the MOFA, the generosity of TSMC and Medtecs is sincerely appreciated, and reflects the compassion of the government and the people. It also underscores a commitment to expanding the country’s global participation while showing Taiwan Can Help realize the World Health Organization’s goal of Health For All.
In a tweet on its official Twitter account, the MOFA said “Combating #COVID19 takes #AllHandsOnDeck. This is why we’re working with TSMC Charity Foundation & Medtecs Group in facilitating the donation of coveralls, hazmat suits, head covers, isolation gowns, masks & shoe covers to #Eswatini, #StLucia & #Somaliland. Yes! #TaiwanCanHelp.”
Taiwan is a regular donor of PPE, as well as medical devices like infrared displays and thermometers. Recipients include allies, New Southbound policy target countries, EU member states, the UK and US.
A key plank in the government’s national development strategy, the NSP seeks to enhance Taiwan’s agricultural, business, cultural, education, tourism and trade ties with the ten Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states, six South Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand. (DL-E)
