Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (L) hosts a reception for WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Takeshi Kasai, Ha Noi, January 11, 2022 - Photo: VGP

The Prime Minister made the suggestions on January 11 in Ha Noi at a reception for WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Takeshi Kasai.

Mr. Pham thanked the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific, the WHO Office in Viet Nam, and the Director for their assistance for Viet Nam's fight against COVID-19 via access to various vaccine sources and medical supplies. 

Viet Nam considers COVID-19 as a global challenge, he said. 

“No one is safe until everyone is safe. No country is safe while other countries are struggling against the pandemic,” he added.  

Hence, Viet Nam always seriously complies with recommendations of the WHO in line with domestic circumstances, provides facemasks and medical equipment for other countries; raise initiatives on disease prevention and fight and voluntarily contributes to the COVID-19 Response Fund initiated by the WHO and COVAX Facility. 

He took the occasion to suggest the international body and Mr.  Takeshi Kasai further support Viet Nam in vaccine research, production, recognition procedures so that Viet Nam will become self-sufficient in vaccine production.

The Prime Minister also proposed the WHO help Viet Nam improve the healthcare system capacity, share information, timely assess epidemic situations, and make recommendations on vaccination. 

In addition, Mr. Pham recommended WHO experts consult the Vietnamese Government on kid vaccination rollout so that all Vietnamese students will be back to schools soon. 

In reply, Mr. Takeshi Kasai treasured Viet Nam’s contributions to global pandemic fight and the country’s achievements in pandemic prevention especially the vaccine issue. 

He said that he was impressed with the Government leader’s instruction on house-to-house vaccination which resulted in Viet Nam’s high vaccine coverage.

The guest leader was convinced that Viet Nam would effectively respond and adapt to the pandemic and become a regional and international example in healthcare and the WHO will actively accompany and support the Southeast Asian nation on the path./.