China donates prefabricated houses to quake-hit Syrians

DAMASCUS, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Syrian and Chinese officials jointly announced on Wednesday that China donated 225 prefabricated houses to accommodate the Syrians displaced by the devastating earthquake on Feb. 6.

The handover certificate was signed by Syria's Minister of Local Administration and Environment Hussein Makhlouf and China's Ambassador to Syria Shi Hongwei in Damascus.

These prefabricated houses have already arrived at the seaport in the northwestern city of Latakia and will soon be distributed to the affected individuals in the northern provinces of Latakia and Aleppo.

After the signing ceremony, Shi expressed China's deep concern about the aftermath of the earthquake in Syria, emphasizing China's commitment to providing assistance to Syria based on the country's specific needs.

"The Chinese side will continue to extend humanitarian aid according to Syria's requirements. We will offer all possible support in sheltering the affected people and explore further cooperation in this area," said Shi.

Makhlouf, in his remarks following the signing ceremony, praised China's supportive stance towards Syria and the consistent humanitarian assistance provided by the Chinese government.

He noted that China has been a steadfast supporter of Syria, especially in the aftermath of the powerful earthquake.

"The Syrian people will always remember those who supported them... especially during the aftermath of the earthquake. We express our gratitude to the friendly Chinese people, the Chinese government, and its leadership," said the Syrian minister.

Since the powerful earthquake that struck Türkiye and neighboring Syria on Feb. 6, China has been actively involved in assisting both countries. The Red Cross Society of China acted swiftly by delivering two shipments of humanitarian supplies to Syria, which arrived in Damascus on Feb. 9 and 13, respectively.

On Feb. 15, China generously donated 80 tonnes of medical supplies, including respirators, oxygen-generating devices, as well as tents, first aid kits, blankets, winter clothing, and food provisions.