Colombo: World Health Organization (WHO) has donated 5,000 additional COVID-19 test kits to the Maldives to assist the archipelago in increasing its testing capacity.

The donation was handed over to the Maldivian government at a ceremony held at the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) on Tuesday. The items handed over by WHO representative to Maldives, Dr. Arvind Mathur were received by Health Minister Abdulla Ameen on behalf of the government. The minister thanked the organization for their assistance and guidance in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Health Ministry said 41,000 test kits have been donated by WHO until now. The organization has promised to provide more assistance in the future.

In addition to providing technical expertise, WHO is assisting with the procurement of different medical equipment necessary at this critical time. WHO is also asssisting in appealing for aid from other international organizations, said the ministry.

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