WE ARE READY: PM ON COVID-19 VACCINES

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has reiterated the Fijian Government’s priority to secure effective COVID-19 vaccines quickly, equitably, and affordably.

Once vaccines are secured, Government’s focus will then shift to administration which he said would easily be the most complex logistical endeavour Fiji has undertaken.

“But we are ready. We must be ready, because we know it will be well-worth the effort,” Mr Bainimarama said, adding that he trusts that Fiji’s development partners around the world would support the effort.

“As viable vaccines have become available, wealthier nations aren’t wasting time getting jabs in arms as quickly as they can. Those governments are clear-eyed about the stakes of immunising their populations. So are we.

“The science behind these vaccines is clear, they will not succeed if they only reach the arms of the rich. This is a global crisis. So as long as any nation of any size remains vulnerable to an outbreak, we are all vulnerable.

“We look forward to working closely with all of our development partners, as well as the pharmaceutical companies, to see that Fijians are immunised from this virus as soon and safely as possible. Not after the developed world, but alongside the citizens of wealthier nations.”

In a previous interview, Permanent Secretary for Health Dr James Fong said the vaccines will be available for Fijians by April.