Recently, letters from South Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Iran, Uruguay and a number of other countries were sent to Hainan one after another, thanking the province for offering support and assistance in their fight against the COVID-19 epidemic.

While Hainan's anti-epidemic work was at a critical stage, over 20 sister provinces around the world reached out, demonstrating the deep love between international friends, introduced Wang Sheng, Director-General of Hainan Provincial Foreign Affairs Office.

"As some countries are actively combating the epidemic with very limited medical supplies at present, we feel the urgent need to return the favor," said Wang, pointing out that the Office has purchased and arranged batches of supplies for international sister provinces despite all difficulties.

As of April 10, Hainan has donated more than 700,000 medical masks, protective suits, disinfectant and other supplies to 29 sister provinces in 22 countries. Letters of condolences were also sent to 39 provinces in 31 countries.

"The timely help from Hainan government and people in our most difficult times made us feel the warmth of an old friend," wrote Won Hee-ryong, Governor of Jeju Province, South Korea.

"Getting through this tough time together will further consolidate the friendship that we have been building for the past 30 years," replied Toshizo Ido, Governor of Hyogo Prefecture, Japan in a letter with words of thanks written by his own hand.