China scores points over Russia with 'mask diplomacy' in Belarus

Coronavirus brings Minsk closer to 'polite and decent' Beijing

20200512 china mask supplies

A medical supply factory in China's Jiangsu Province: The country has sent three cargo planes full of equipment to Belarus over the past month. © Reuters

DIMITRI SIMES, Contributing writer

MOSCOW -- China's coronavirus aid has earned mixed reviews in Europe at best, but it appears to be working as advertised in Belarus -- apparently at Russia's expense.

Over the past month, China has sent three cargo planes to the small Eastern European nation, carrying over 82 tons of rapid testing kits, masks, protective suits, respirators and other medical equipment. Another shipment is due to arrive later this month.

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