(Two Sessions Express) Wang Yi: Oppose "vaccine nationalism" and do not accept the creation of "immune gap"

  China News Service, Beijing, March 7 (Reporter Li Jinlei) "We oppose the practice of'vaccine nationalism', do not accept the creation of an'immune gap', and resist any attempt to politicize vaccine cooperation." March 7, China State Councilor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi said when answering questions from Chinese and foreign journalists on "China's foreign policy and foreign relations."

  In response to voices questioning China’s “vaccine diplomacy”, Wang Yi pointed out that vaccines are a weapon against the virus and the hope of saving lives. They should serve the world and benefit all mankind.

  Wang Yi used three "firsts" to describe China's contribution and role in vaccines——

  China firmly upholds the "first attribute" of public vaccine products.

We are the first to commit to vaccine research and development as a global public product, and in particular strive to improve the accessibility and affordability of vaccines in developing countries.

  China firmly stands in the "first phalanx" of international vaccine cooperation.

We have carried out vaccine research and development and production cooperation with more than 10 countries, and more than 100,000 volunteers from more than 100 nationalities have participated.

Seventeen Chinese vaccines have entered clinical trials, and more than 60 countries have authorized the use of Chinese vaccines.

The safety and effectiveness of Chinese vaccines are being widely recognized by various countries.

We are also willing to discuss the feasibility and operation plan of mutual recognition of vaccination with other countries.

  China firmly acts as the "first echelon" for the fair distribution of vaccines.

China has joined the WHO's "New Crown Vaccine Implementation Plan" and promised to provide the first batch of 10 million doses of vaccine for the urgent needs of developing countries.

China has provided free vaccine assistance to 69 developing countries in urgent need, while exporting vaccines to 43 countries.

We have also responded to the UN's call to donate vaccines to peacekeepers from all over the world.

We are also willing to cooperate with the International Olympic Committee to provide vaccines to athletes preparing to participate in the Olympic Games.

It is hoped that the Chinese vaccine will bring more confidence and hope to the global fight against the epidemic.

  Wang Yi pointed out that at present, there are many vaccines on the market around the world, and each country decides which vaccine to choose.

Whether it is a Chinese vaccine or a foreign vaccine, as long as it is safe and reliable, it is a good vaccine.

  Wang Yi emphasized that he opposes "vaccine nationalism", does not accept the creation of an "immune gap", and resists any attempt to politicize vaccine cooperation.

It is hoped that all capable countries can do their best to provide vaccines to countries in need, especially developing countries, so that people in all countries can afford and use them, and truly become "people's vaccines."

(Finish)