The UAE recently participated in a virtual meeting of foreign ministers from countries across the world. Convened by the United States of America, the meeting was aimed at discussing the latest developments in the international response to the COVID-19 pandemic along with ongoing efforts in countries to recover from its repercussions.

Representing the UAE in the meeting, Dr. Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash, Diplomatic Advisor to the UAE President, underlined the prominent role played by the Emirati government in containing the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. He further stressed the UAE's continuous efforts to proactively lead the global response against COVID-19 to mitigate its impact.

Addressing the meeting, Dr Gargash highlighted the UAE's beliefs in the right of every individual worldwide to have equal access to COVID vaccines without any discrimination, irrespective of their political affiliation, nationality, religious or ethnic background.

"We should not see any country suffer from the lack of vaccines, and therefore, the international community should continue to work on ensuring sufficient supply and fair distribution of the vaccine," he said.

He stressed the UAE's support for the 'COVAX Facility' to boost the development, production, and equitable access to COVID-19 tests, treatments, and vaccines for all people in need. In this regard, he noted that the UAE has partnered with UNICEF to support the international agency's mission to distribute critical COVID-19 vaccines and supplies on behalf of the COVAX Facility through Dubai's International Humanitarian City.

The UAE has also joined the Friends of the COVAX Facility with the European Union, the UK, Australia, Canada, Israel among others to support vaccine multilateralism and the objective to ensure affordable, fair and equitable access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines for all, the diplomat added.

He hailed the UAE's firm belief in the possibility of accelerating global recovery in a sustainable and equitable manner by bringing together global partners for the greater good of the international community as a whole. 

"Nearly two years after the outbreak of the pandemic began, the world has already realised the fact that only a few countries can grow and prosper in isolation from other nations. The pandemic has doubled down on the interdependence of states and the benefits of joint action, as global health security hinges on ensuring the social welfare of all societies," Dr Gargash added. 

In conclusion, Dr Gargash underlined the significance of fostering international cooperation and concerted efforts across the world to enhance preparedness to address any global health threats in the future.

The meeting was followed by a global virtual summit convened by US President Joe Biden last September. The participants also discussed other topics related to equitable distribution of vaccines, capacity-building, and role of foreign ministers in reinforcing global governance with the aim of strengthening critical decision-making.