Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- In the ongoing fight against COVID-19, the Japanese government today donated more than 200,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine to Uzbekistan. The delivery was made in cooperation with UNICEF through the COVAX mechanism.

"Japan has constantly supported Uzbekistan’s efforts in the fight against COVID-19, including the provision of advanced medical equipment, personal protective equipment, as well as assistance to socially and economically vulnerable segments of the population," said Mr. Yoshinori Fujiyama, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of Uzbekistan. “So far, we have provided a total of over US$10 million in support to fight COVID-19 in Uzbekistan. I am very pleased to announce today that Japan has joined the group of countries that provide valuable vaccines specifically for the people of Uzbekistan.”

He also expressed hope that this assistance will contribute to a healthier life for people in Uzbekistan, as well as deepen friendship between the two countries, which will celebrate the 30th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.

The Japanese Government’s donation is part of the global vaccine supply and distribution mechanism. These vaccines will go a long way in alleviating the current supply shortage and, importantly, protecting against new options and spreading vaccination to target groups.

With this delivery, the total number of COVID-19 vaccines received by Uzbekistan reached 61 million doses. In addition, UNICEF procured and delivered safe vaccination supplies such as syringes, safety boxes and personal protective equipment.

Under the COVAX mechanism, UNICEF has planned to deliver an additional 24.6 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines by mid-2022.

“As the vaccination campaign unfolds in Uzbekistan, new variants of the virus are emerging around the world, and such donations are timely and vital for the people of Uzbekistan,” said Geoffrey Ijumba, Deputy Head of UNICEF Country Office in Uzbekistan. "A huge thanks to the government of Japan for demonstrating permanent unity with the people of Uzbekistan."

In Uzbekistan, UNICEF supported the government in developing a national COVID-19 vaccine deployment and vaccination plan, as well as public awareness of the risks and demand for COVID-19 vaccines.

Globally, UNICEF organizes the supply of vaccines under COVAX. The vaccines delivered to Uzbekistan contribute to the country’s efforts to vaccinate those at high risk of infection and those most vulnerable to developing severe illness from COVID-19.