Andina

Peru President: Fighting coronavirus requires coordinated global support, highlights WHO

16:43 | Lima, Apr. 16.

Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra on Thursday afternoon affirmed that the fight against coronavirus (COVID-19) requires coordinated global support, stressing the importance of the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Head of State described as fundamental the role that the aforementioned organization —which is part of the United Nations— plays in facing this pandemic that affects everyone.

"If any country has particular positions, we respect them, but we believe this is the moment that we need to join efforts in order to confront it (the COVID-19) adequately," he expressed.

The top official said that countries with a higher level of scientific development are making efforts to develop a vaccine, which must be coordinated, so that the results are shared on a global level.

"That is why an organization, which brings everyone together in matters of health, is essential. Otherwise, we could face the risk that a group of scientists from one country own the vaccine and only use it in their country (...). Having an organization that represents all humanity helps prevent those actions," he stated.

The statesman affirmed that the World Health Organization has made clear and timely decisions, and some objected ones, but no one will deny the importance of joining efforts in the global context to adequately tackle the COVID-19.

"An entity is needed that achieves the balance we require for those solutions to benefit all humanity and not just certain countries. We are part of the United Nations System and the WHO, and we will continue to give (them) our full support," he emphasized.

Mr. Vizcarra reiterated that national scientists in Peru have found the genome of the COVID-19 strain, and this has been shared with the world scientific community to be taken into account for the cure or immunization.

Remarks were made in a televised press conference, within the framework of 
a mandatory social isolation imposed to prevent the COVID-19 from further spreading in the South American country.


On this occasion, the President was joined by some members of the Council of Ministers. The event was held at the Government Palace in Lima.

Thursday marks the thirty-second day of mandatory social isolation.

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Published: 4/16/2020