Taiwan, one of the success stories of the global pandemic which has had only 400 cases and six deaths despite being separated from China by just a 180 km-wide strait, has launched Taiwan’s first large-scale humanitarian assistance initiative in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. So far, there are 25.5 million face masks in total and other medical supplies donated to the most needed countries, including the United States, European nations, diplomatic allies, 18 countries across Indo-Pacific and some African and Mideast countries. 

 In the spirit of “Taiwan can help!" motto, Taiwan decided to provide one million face masks to India to help protect frontline medical personnel. The masks were brought to India by a special chartered flight on 4 May. On behalf of the Amb. Chung-Kwang Tien of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India handed over these masks to Neel Kamal Singh, Deputy Secretary-General of Indian Red Cross Society, 8 May.

Taiwan has been recognized and praised greatly by international communities and countries around the world for its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Tien Also complimented the extraordinary efforts the Indian government has made in curtailing the spread of COVID-19. Highlighting India as an important and valued partner to Taiwan, Tien expressed strong confidence that India will prevail over the challenges and restore momentum and economic growth.

Taiwan has no formal diplomatic ties with India and has only an economic and cultural representation.