"We are here to exchange ideas and experiences in combating COVID-19, as you know China has now flattened the curve of the pandemic. We hope that our mission here and the medical supplies we have brought will enhance Zimbabwe's confidence in responding to COVID-19 and cement our traditional friendship," he said.

China started helping Zimbabwe with information and expertise on combating the coronavirus as early as February before any confirmed cases were reported in Africa. When the threat of COVID-19 became real, China quickly assisted with medical supplies and equipment.

By last week, the Chinese government and local Chinese businesses had donated more than 3,000 N95 respirators, 162,000 face masks, 8,120 protective suits, 500 infrared thermometers, 36 thermal guns, 20,300 testing kits, 2,000 pairs of sterile latex surgical gloves and surgical shoe covers, 9,500 pairs of gloves, 1,920 eye patches, 3,700 face shields, 18,900 swabs and extraction kits and five ventilators.

Alibaba founder Jack Ma, through his foundation also made three sets of donations to 54 African countries, including Zimbabwe, via the African Union.

Zimbabwe has conducted over 21,000 tests and recorded 36 positive coronavirus cases and two deaths.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of China-Zimbabwe diplomatic relations. The two countries enjoy cordial relations dating back to the days of Zimbabwe's struggle for independence when together they fought against colonialism.