Today the Federal Government announced a COVID-19 vaccine roll-out to Timor Leste and Fiji, and a second lot of support to India. It will also send medical supplies to Timor Leste as part of the initiative.
In light of these announcements, the following statements are attributable to World Vision Australia's CEO Daniel Wordsworth:
On further support to India:
"India has shown great generosity as a global partner in the fight against COVID-19, so it's welcome news that Australia will continue to support India in its own hour of need.
"We must keep listening to and responding to countries as this pandemic ebbs and flows around the globe – it is key to an effective response.
"Controlling this disease in India will require a mammoth global effort – World Vision is at the epicentre of this effort to ensure the welfare of vulnerable communities and children. We will be there for the long run."
On the vaccine roll-out to Fiji and Timor Leste:
"Considering our neighbours and the most vulnerable around the world is critical as we plan our own response to the COVID-19 vaccine. Support for the Pacific is not just welcome, but essential.
"This isn't a 'race' for vaccines between countries – it is a global moment and requires a global response. I think Australians genuinely understand that COVID isn't over for us, until it's over for everyone."
