Solberg on fair distribution of corona vaccines: – Formidable challenge

It may prove impossible to find a way to ensure a globally fair distribution of corona vaccines and medicine, says Prime Minister Erna Solberg (Høyre).

The first high-level meeting of the council to ensure a globally fair distribution of corona vaccines, medicines and test equipment was launched on Thursday. There, Solberg discussed the matter with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, head of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen and WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

On Monday, it was announced that Norway, together with South Africa, has been appointed as leaders of the council, which will lead a core group of countries and international actors who want to mobilize for a fair distribution of, among other things, vaccines and test equipment.

Formidable challenge
At the meeting, Solberg emphasized that the world is facing a formidable challenge, and that it may prove impossible to find a common, permanent solution for how the resources are to be distributed.

“Therefore, we must respond to the needs when and where they arise, and we must do this together. Norway will work tirelessly to ensure that common principles are followed, and that all countries and actors are listened to,” Solberg assured.

“The effort will also be an important step in ensuring that the world has better preparedness in the face of future pandemics. No one is safe until everyone is safe,” the prime minister stated.

Great recognition
The council has been established on the initiative of the WHO and the EU Commission, and the main task for Norway is to continue the mobilization work, as well as provide advice and support regarding testing, vaccines, medicine and health systems.

“The world has demanded a joint effort to ensure effective and fair action against covid-19. Now it has materialized through this council, which Norway will lead together with South Africa,” says Solberg to NTB.

“That Norway gets this role is a great recognition of the commitment we have had, and still want to have, to strengthen the work with global health,” she adds.

© NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today