In a speech at the handover on Monday, Timor-Leste’s Deputy Minister of Health, Bonifácio Mau Coli dos Reis said the vaccines represented the “generous commitment and assistance that the Government of China has given to the national health sector.”

Included with the vaccine donation were syringes, 20 ventilators, 20 oxygen concentrators and 20,000 tests.

This is the 15th batch of medical supplies and equipment to combat the COVID-19 epidemic provided by the Chinese Government. 

The donation comes amid a significant slow-down in COVID-19 infections across Timor-Leste with just one new case reported in the last 24 hours bringing total active cases to 13.

Since the pandemic started last year, Timor-Leste has reported 22,822 infections and 130 deaths.  

Some 72% of Timor-Leste’s adult population are double vaccinated, according to official data.