ArmInfo. Bulgaria transferred humanitarian aid to Armenia to fight a new type of coronavirus (Covid-19).
Thus, the Ambassador of Bulgaria to Armenia Maria Pavlova Tzotzorkova-Kaymaktchieva during the official ceremony of handing over 40 boxes of medical supplies (mainly protective masks, suits and glasses) stated that Covid-19 is a global challenge that all of humanity has faced.
"This pandemic covered all countries of the world, without exception - regardless of whether they are developed or developing countries. But, unity came to the rescue of mankind, which lies at the basis of European values. Despite the fact that Bulgaria itself faced challenges, caused by the pandemic, nevertheless, it is ready to lend a helping hand to friendly Armenia, "the diplomat said, adding that the strength lies in unity. In this regard, the Bulgarian diplomat stated that the motto of the EU "United in Diversity" is more relevant today than ever.
The Ambassador also said that humanitarian aid from Bulgaria was sent to Armenia as part of the Team Europe assistance program, aimed at supporting partner countries in their fight against coronavirus infection and its consequences. Team Europe's approach is to combine the financial resources of the EU, its member states and financial institutions, in particular the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Maria Pavlova also informed that the predominant part of the assistance are Bulgarian-made protective suits (exported to Europe), they are made of breathable material and are reusable. According to her, for Armenia with its climatic conditions, such remedies will come in handy. In her turn, RA Deputy Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan, expressing gratitude to the Bulgarian side for the assistance provided, noted that it will be very useful for the Armenian health system. "The coronavirus pandemic is a challenge for all of humanity. Unfortunately, today the situation in Armenia is not encouraging from the point of view of increasing the number of infected people. There are more and more infected people every day. The healthcare system is working under stress. In this regard, we highly appreciate this humanitarian step our Bulgarian friends, "said the deputy minister. Representatives of the Armenian Foreign Ministry also attended the humanitarian aid transfer ceremony. It should be noted that the European Commission and the European Investment Bank have already announced the allocation of financial assistance in the amount of more than 15.6 billion euros under existing programs. EU countries, as well as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, have confirmed their commitment to support this joint initiative and make a comparable contribution. In total, the Team Europe assistance program will amount to more than 20 billion euros.
It should be noted that according to the data as of 11:00am on June 3, 515 new cases of coronavirus infection were detected in Armenia, another 27 patients recovered. In total, 10,524 cases of coronavirus were confirmed in the republic, 3,454 people recovered, 170 died. Over the past 24 hours, the disease claimed the lives of 12 people aged 46 to 86 years; all had accompanying chronic diseases. Over the past day, there were also three deaths recorded when patients with confirmed coronavirus infection, died due to other diseases. Thus, the total number of such cases reached 59. Currently, 6841 patients are receiving actual treatment. In total, 61650 tests for coronavirus were conducted in the republic.