China Promises Africa to Continue Support for Recovering from Effects of Ebola

Foreign minister of China has pledged to offer continued support to the three West African countries which were hit hardest by the Ebola outbreak that has killed more than 11,200 people. Minister Wang Yi ended his tour in Guinea on August 10 after visiting Sierra Leone and Liberia.

He said he would encourage Chinese enterprises to invest in the post-Ebola economy to construct ports, roads, railways and help with water supply needs when he met the Guinea President Alpha Conde.

Wang said Liberia is a good example of how China supports countries in Africa. "You will see houses and roads built by China and Chinese companies helping the people of Liberia," he said through a translator. "China is ready to continue to play that role and shoulder the responsibility."

When Ebola spread last year, China was one of the first to fly in badly needed medical gear. China has provided at least $121 million in cash and supplies to fight the disease in West Africa. They also sent dozens of army doctors and hundreds of army medical workers. China plans to build government offices and investigate a possible steel-making project in Liberia, said Wang.

Wang met Ernest Bai Koroma President of Sierra Leone to discuss Sierra Leone's development and public health needs. He also discussed investments in mining, industrialization, fishing and construction.

Source: Medindia