World Taekwondo have partnered with the Wuxi Government ©World Taekwondo

World Taekwondo have announced a collaboration with the Wuxi Municipal People’s Government, and the Jiangsu Wuxi Economic Development Zone to donate 100,000 protective masks to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.

The masks will be donated by the Wuxi and Jiangsu Governments to World Taekwondo, who will distribute the masks to countries most impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.

The support follows World Taekwondo’s decision to donate 10,800 hand sanitisers to Wuxi in February when the coronavirus was at its peak in the city.

“The world is facing unprecedented challenges,” said Chungwon Choue, World Taekwondo President.

“It is at times like these that it is more important than ever that we stand in solidarity with each other and offer support where we can.

“We were very happy to support Wuxi earlier this year and we are very grateful for the assistance they are now providing.

“With this global period of uncertainty and many sports events being postponed or cancelled to protect the well-being of everyone involved, it is important that we continue to live by the Olympic values, showing friendship and respect to our fellow global citizens.”

Over 100,000 masks will be sent to the most affected countries worldwide ©World Taekwondo
Over 100,000 masks will be sent to the most affected countries worldwide ©World Taekwondo

World Taekwondo said it shares a strong bond with Wuxi, which has hosted several major taekwondo events.

Wuxi is scheduled to host the World Taekwondo Championships in 2021.

The city will also host the World Cup Poomsae and Team Championships and the Grand Slam Champions Series later this year.

“There’s a Chinese ancient poetry ‘Long distance separates no bosom friends’,” said Liu Xia, Wuxi Vice Mayor.

“At this special moment, we are here to hold the donation ceremony of medical supplies to World Taekwondo.

“First of all, entrusted by Mr. Huang Qin, Secretary of the Wuxi Municipal CPC Committee and Mr. Du Xiaogang, Mayor of Wuxi Municipal People’s Government on behalf of Wuxi Municipal CPC Committee, Wuxi Municipal People’s Government, and 6.59 million citizens in Wuxi, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to you and World Taekwondo for your kind assistance delivered in our difficult time.

“The help and support given by World Taekwondo in the most difficult times are always in our hearts, and now we are also concerned about the health and safety of every member of the taekwondo family.”

Over 80,000 cases of coronavirus have been reported in China, where the outbreak orginated.

Over 3,200 deaths have been reported in the country.

More cases have now been reported outside the country now, with Europe considered the current centre of the pandemic.

Over 244,000 cases have been reported worldwide.