Turkey has been helping a number of countries to step up their fight against the new coronavirus pandemic, which has infected 1.6 million people worldwide.
Ankara has sent medical aid to countries badly hit by coronavirus epidemics, including U.S., U.K., Italy and Spain– the countries in Europe worst-hit by the virus — as well as Balkan countries.
Turkey has sent 500,000 coronavirus test kits to the U.S. upon their request.
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) delivered 1000 biohazard suits, 93,500 respiratory protective masks and 1,000 pieces of single-use protective clothing to China.
“The pandemic has reminded us all of the fact that we share a common destiny, even though we have different languages, religions and countries. This virus, which poses a threat against everyone, also presents us with an opportunity to unite against humanity’s common enemy. I call on all countries to contribute fairly to the fight against this global health crisis until all of humanity can breathe a sigh of relief.”
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
President of the Republic of Turkey
Turkey also provided $11 million (72 million Turkish liras) financial aid for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus to help fight the coronavirus pandemic.
Turkey also sent medical aid to 5 Balkan countries including Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Kosovo.
The aid packages include medical supplies, medicines and also ration bags with flour, rice, sugar, oil and other essential commodities.
Turkey also sent medical supplies to Libya and Iran to help fight the novel coronavirus.