WHO chief eyes widespread use of Sputnik V vaccine: Russia

Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed the WHO’s interest in the widespread use of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine at a meeting with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Vershinin in Geneva.

“Tedros Adhanom praised highly Russia’s weighty contribution to multilateral cooperation under the auspices of the WHO, including global efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization is interested in the widespread use of Russia’s Sputnik-V vaccine and other responsible drugs in the prevention of coronavirus infections so as to help countries in need, including through international mechanisms,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement released on Wednesday.

The Russian Foreign Ministry pointed out that the sides had an in-depth discussion on how to strengthen the WHO’s readiness for and response to outbreaks of dangerous infectious diseases, along with other health emergencies.

“Our country reaffirmed its commitment to stepping up constructive cooperation with the WHO as a key UN organization that ensures coordination of international work in the health sector,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said.