ABU DHABI — The United Arab Emirates sent an aid plane containing seven metric tons of medical supplies to the Philippines to bolster the Manila’s efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, state news agency WAM reported on Wednesday.

The aid will assist approximately 7,000 medical professionals as they work to contain the virus.

Commenting on the aid delivery, Hamad Saeed Hamad Obaid Alzaabi, UAE Ambassador to the Philippines, said: "Through the provision of critical medical aid, the UAE affirms its commitment to offering a helping hand to the Philippines. Our two countries share a deep partnership between our governments and peoples, and it is our sincere hope that such assistance enables the Philippines to take the necessary action to defend itself against COVID-19."

"The UAE stands in solidarity with all nations working to contain and confront the COVID-19 pandemic," he added.

To date, the UAE has provided more than 334 metric tons of aid to over 32 countries, supporting nearly 334,000 medical professionals in the process. — SG