On October 15th, 2020, Mrs. Zhao Yinguang, wife of Chinese Ambassador to the FSM, along with representatives from China Railway 14th Bureau, made a donation to the Office of the First Lady of the FSM on behalf of the Chinese Embassy. The donation includes schoolbags, stationary, basketballs, stuffed toys and children’s English books among other items. First Lady Patricia Edwin received Mrs. Zhao. Mr. Brendy Carl, Assistant Secretary of Foreign Affairs, was present.

Mrs. Zhao expressed her admiration towards First Lady Edwin’s care for the children in the FSM and her devoted love for children with disabilities. Mrs. Zhao said that she was especially inspired by the First Lady’s recent personal visits to the disabled kids in the Pohnpei villages. She said that the Chinese Embassy in the FSM also attaches importance to the development of children and people with disabilities in the FSM. She expressed the Embassy’s readiness to render assistance within its capacity for the benefits of the FSM people. “We feel happy and honored that these donation items, sourced from both the Embassy and China Railway, will be of benefits to the children. It’s not that these gifts count, but the thoughts behind them that demonstrate sincere caring and wishes of the Chinese people for the local children. We hope these gifts can bring joy, vitality and hope to them and make them smile. The Chinese Embassy will continue supporting the First Lady’s Office, and the Chinese companies here are also willing to fulfill social responsibilities and contribute to social welfare missions. We are looking forward to more creative cooperation to be discussed.” said Mrs. Zhao.

First Lady Edwin extended her appreciation to the Chinese Embassy for its support and care for the children with disabilities. She said that these donation items such as schoolbags and pencil boxes, eagerly longed for by the local disabled children, will definitely be much appreciated. She noted that the friendship and kindness behind these gifts mean a lot. She said, “All children are deserving of love and inclusion”, and that together with President Panuelo, she will keep on being committed to the FSM children’s development and special education and look forward to more communications and exchanges with the Chinese side.

H.E. David W. Panuelo, President of the FSM, also showed up to say hello to Mrs. Zhao and extended his thanks to the Chinese Embassy.