Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday said China is ready to offer vaccine to support Ethiopia and Algeria in their fight against the COVID-19 in two separate phone calls with Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen and Algerian Foreign Minister Sabri Boukadoum.

In the phone conversation with Mekonnen, Wang said China attaches great importance to its relationship with Ethiopia. Assuring China's expectation of Ethiopia playing a more profound role in regional and international affairs, Wang hoped the country would continue supporting China on issues related to China's core interests.

Wang also revealed China's decision to provide COVID-19 vaccines and funds to the country to support its fight against the pandemic and economic recovery afterwards.

China is going to provide emergency food assistance to the country's Tigray Region as an effort to help the region return to normal life, the Chinese foreign minister added, stressing China sincerely wishes for peace and stability in Ethiopia.

Mekonnen, for his part, extended New Year greetings to all Chinese people. He reiterated Ethiopia's commitment to China-friendly policies and support to China while appreciating China's generous help to the country in its economy and social development.

In the phone call with Algeria's Boukadoum, Wang hailed bilateral cooperation between the two countries under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Noting that Algeria has made great contributions in helping China resume its legitimate seat at the United Nations 50 years ago, Wang said the Chinese people will never forget Algeria's efforts and called on the two countries to carry on the traditional friendship to jointly tackle all challenges and risks.

In support of Algeria's fight against the pandemic, Wang said that China has decided to offer emergency vaccine assistance to the country. It will also make purchasing vaccines convenient, added Wang.

Boukadoum reiterated the country's commitment to bilateral cooperation and support to China on issues related to its core interests.

He expressed his wish for ties between the two countries to elevate to a higher level in the Year of the Ox.