LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-3857
ANSWERED ON- 11/08/2023
VACCINE MAITRI
†3857. SHRI RAMESH CHANDER KAUSHIK
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-
(a) whether India’s achievements with respect to "Vaccine Maitri” have been prominently featured in various G20 events;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the strong participation of African countries in various G20 events is likely to have a positive impact on foreign and economic relations of India-Africa; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
(SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)
(a & b) During India’s G20 Presidency, substantive deliberations are being held on health emergencies prevention, preparedness & response, on strengthening international pharmaceutical cooperation as well as improving access to safe, effective, quality and affordable vaccines, diagnostics, therapeutics and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including to the Global South. India’s role during the COVID-19 pandemic, including our "Vaccine Maitri” programme, which has benefitted more than 150 countries, has also been highlighted.
(c & d) India's G20 Presidency has the largest ever representation from Africa. In addition to South Africa, a G20-member, Egypt, Mauritius, Nigeria and Comoros (African Union Chair) have been invited to participate in G20 meetings and Summit during our Presidency. India has emerged as a voice of the Global South, including for our African friends and partners.
India’s G20 Presidency priorities are inclusive and far-reaching, with broad areas of substantive deliberations comprising inclusive and resilient growth; progress on SDGs; green development and LiFE; technological transformation and public digital infrastructure; reforming multilateral institutions; women led development; and international peace and harmony. It is our endeavour that inputs generated from the "Voice of Global South Summit” receive cognizance globally, including in G20 deliberations. It is the Government’s constant endeavour to promote and further strengthen cooperation with friendly countries in areas of mutual interest, both bilaterally and at multilateral fora.
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