(On the outcome of the COVAX AMC Summit)

The COVAX AMC Summit was held just now. As a co-chair, I called for solidarity from the international community toward realizing equitable access to vaccines. As a result, we were able to raise funds beyond the target of 8.3 billion dollars. This will allow us to secure vaccines for nearly 30 percent of the population in developing countries. I understand that we have succeeded in achieving this major objective.

Japan will make an additional contribution on an unprecedented scale of 800 million dollars, which brings the total contribution to 1 billion dollars. I also announced that Japan will promote the supply of domestically manufactured vaccines to other countries and regions.

The Government intends to continue to make steady efforts to ensure equitable access to vaccines around the world.