China and Latin American and Caribbean countries have supported each other in economic recovery and COVID-19 response, said Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday.

"China has donated over 34 million items of much-needed medical supplies and equipment to 30 Latin American and Caribbean countries, and held over 40 video conferences to share experiences. It is also providing vaccines to 12 countries in the region," Wang noted. 

Economic and trade cooperation continue to bear fruit in the past year, Wang said at a virtual press conference during the Fourth Session of the 13th National People's Congress.

"Two-way trade has exceeded $300 billion for three years in a row. Exports from the region to China expanded, despite the disruptions of COVID-19," he added.

According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, cooperation with China has become an important driver for economic stability and growth in the region. 

"The pandemic has not hindered our cooperation. Instead, our peoples have grown closer and found broader mutual interests," Wang said. 

(Cover: Bolivian President Luis Arce Catacora (2nd, left) wears a face mask as he stands next to a man being vaccinated against COVID-19 in La Paz, Bolivia, March 1, 2021. /CFP)