“We speak with one voice to express our resolute support for this great city and its proud people,” said Secretary-General António Guterres in a statement.
“To us, New York is not just our home or the headquarters of the United Nations. It is a vibrant international capital through which the world communicates, debates, trades, and prospers. On behalf of the UN community and the diplomatic corps, we sincerely hope this modest donation makes a difference,” he added.
Mr. Guterres said that the face masks stored in UN facilities were part of stocks deemed surplus to requirements.
The UN chief praised medical professionals in New York City who have been working “courageously, selflessly, and tirelessly in response to the spread of COVID-19 across the boroughs,” in a reference to the five boroughs into which the City is administratively divided.
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