Commonwealth Health Ministers' Meeting: India favours universal access to COVID-19 drugs
Published: May 15, 2020
By TIOLCORPLAWS News Service
NEW DELHI, MAY 15, 2020: DR. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, participated in the 32nd Commonwealth Health Ministers' Meeting through Video Conference, here yesterday. The theme of the meeting was - Delivering a co-ordinated Commonwealth COVID-19 response.
In his address, Dr Harsh Vardhan said that it is critical to build and strengthen core capacities of developing countries particularly the least developed countries for future preparedness, response and resilience.
He stated, "India has been the first country to urge consolidated global action to fight the challenge of COVID-19. We convened a meeting of SAARC leaders in our region in mid-March in which the need for coming together, not growing apart; collaboration not confusion; and preparation, not panic, was underlined. These are the elements that signify India's response to this crisis."
The Minister said taht India has provided essential medicines such as Hydroxy Chloroquine to almost 100 needy countries, extending solidarity and support during this time of crisis.
He underlined that it is important to facilitate universal and affordable access to all relevant medical products and technologies, both existing and new. These should be made available in a fair and equitable manner to tackle COVID-19.
Indian scientists are working on discovery of vaccine, drugs as well as development of cost-effective diagnostic kits and various life-saving equipment with the active support of Government of India, he added.